p4012 (2018)

4012
VITA/TCE Volunteer Resource Guide

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) / Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE)
2017 RETURNS
Take your VITA/TCE training online at www.irs.gov (keyword: Link

& Learn Taxes). Link to the Practice Lab to gain experience using
tax software and take the certification test online, with immediate
scoring and feedback.
Publication 4012 (Rev. 10-2017) Catalog Number 34183E Department of the Treasury Internal Revenue Service www.irs.gov
How to Get Technical Updates?
Updates to the volunteer training materials will be contained in Publication 4491X, VITA/TCE Training
Supplement. The most recent version can be downloaded at: https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p4491x.pdf
Volunteer Standards of Conduct

VITA/TCE Programs
The mission of the VITA/TCE return preparation programs is to assist eligible taxpayers in
satisfying their tax responsibilities by providing free tax return preparation. To establish the greatest
degree of public trust, volunteers are required to maintain the highest standards of ethical conduct
and provide quality service.
All VITA/TCE volunteers (whether paid or unpaid workers) must complete the Volunteer Standards
of Conduct (VSC) certification and agree to adhere to the VSC by signing Form 13615, Volunteer
Standards of Conduct Agreement, prior to working at a VITA/TCE site. In addition, return preparers,
quality reviewers, and VITA/TCE tax law instructors must certify in tax law prior to signing this form.
This form is not valid until the site coordinator, sponsoring partner, instructor, or IRS contact
confirms the volunteers identity and signs and dates the form.
As a volunteer in the VITA/TCE Programs, you must:
1. Follow the Quality Site Requirements (QSR).
2. Not accept payment, solicit donations, or accept refund payments for federal or state tax return
preparation.
3. Not solicit business from taxpayers you assist or use the knowledge you gained (their
information) about them for any direct or indirect personal benefit for you or any other specific
individual.
4. Not knowingly prepare false returns.
5. Not engage in criminal, infamous, dishonest, notoriously disgraceful conduct, or any other
conduct deemed to have a negative effect on the VITA/TCE Programs.
6. Treat all taxpayers in a professional, courteous, and respectful manner.
Failure to comply with these standards could result in, but is not limited to, the following:
Your removal from all VITA/TCE Programs;

Inclusion in the IRS Volunteer Registry to bar future VITA/TCE activity indefinitely;
Deactivation of your sponsoring partners site VITA/TCE EFIN (electronic filing ID number);
Removal of all IRS products, supplies, loaned equipment, and taxpayer information from
your site;
Termination of your sponsoring organizations partnership with the IRS;
Termination of grant funds from the IRS to your sponsoring partner; and
Referral of your conduct for potential TIGTA and criminal investigations.
TaxSlayer is a copyrighted software program owned by Rhodes Computer Services. All screen shots that
appear throughout the official Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly
(TCE) training materials are used with the permission of Rhodes Computer Services.
Confidentiality Statement:
All tax information you receive from taxpayers in your volunteer capacity is strictly confidential and should not,
under any circumstances, be disclosed to unauthorized individuals.
4012 Table of Contents
Volunteer Standards of Conduct...............Inside Front Cover Dividend Income (Form 1099-DIV)........................... D-11
Table of Contents.................................................................1 State and Local Refund Worksheet ......................... D-12
Directors Letter...................................................................4 Schedule C Self-Employment Income ..................... D-13
How to Use this Guide.........................................................5 Form 1099-MISC ..................................................... D-14
Fact Sheet Quality Updates for 2017..................................6 Connecting the Form 1099-Misc
Scope of Service.................................................................8
Quality Site Requirements.................................................11 to Schedule C .......................................................D-17
Schedule C Menu .................................................... D-18
Tab Whats New Schedule C Questions About Your
Important Changes for 2017...........................................1 Business ............................................................... D-19
Schedule C General Expenses ............................... D-20
Legislative Extenders: Schedule C and Car and Truck Expenses................ D-21
Discharge of Qualified Principal Residence Schedule D Capital Gains ....................................... D-22
Indebtedness....................................................... EXT-1 Entering Capital Gains and Losses ......................... D-23
Publication 4731-A Screening Sheet for Adjustments to Basis in TaxSlayerTY2017........... D-26
Foreclosures/Abandonments.............................. EXT-2 Capital Gains or Losses Sale of Main Home ........... D-28
Entering Forgiveness of Qualified Principal IRA/Pension Distributions (Form 1099-R,
Residence Indebtedness.................................... EXT-4 Form SSA-1099 .................................................... D-33
Tuition and Fees Deduction at a Glance................. EXT-6 Form 1099-R ........................................................... D-34
Residential Energy Credits .................................. ..EXT-7 Taxable Amount Not Determined ............................D-36
Tab A: Who Must File Form 1099-R Simplified Method .............................. D-37
Chart A For Most People Who Must File ................ A-1 Form 1099-R Rollovers ........................................... D-39
Chart B For Children and Other Dependents.......... A-2 Form 1099-R Roth IRA ............................................ D-40
Chart C Other Situations When You Must File......... A-3 Form 1099-R Box 7 Distribution Codes ................... D-41
Chart D Who Should File......................................... A-3 Form 1099-R Nontaxable Income ........................... D-43
Form RRB-1099-R Distributions .............................. D-44
Tab B: Starting a Return and Filing Status Form SSA-1099 Distributions .................................. D-45
Form 1040 Job Aid..................................................... B-1 Form SSA-1099 Lump-Sum Distributions ............... D-46
Form 13614-C Job Aid for Volunteers........................ B-3 Entering K-1 Information in Taxslayer....................D-47
Starting a New Return................................................ B-5 Entering Rental Income in TaxSlayer......................D-50
Determination of Filing Status Decision Tree........... B-8 Other Income ........................................................... D-53
Filing Status................................................................ B-9 Entering Foreign Earned Income Exclusion
Who is a Qualifying Person Qualifying You Information in TaxSlayer (International
to File as Head of Household................................ B-10 Certification only) .................................................. D-54
Cost of Keeping Up a Home..................................... B-11 Entering Other Compensation in TaxSlayer ........... D-61
Entering Basic Information ...................................... B-12 Entering Medicaid Waiver Payments ....................... D-62
Determining the Last Name of Taxpayer ...................B-13 Publication 4731 - Screening Sheet for
Entering Basic Information (continued) ................... B-15 Nonbusiness Credit Card Debt Cancellation ........ D-63
Entering Dependent/Qualifying Person ....................B-17 Insolvency Determination Worksheet ...................... D-64
Tab C: Exemptions/Dependency Entering Cancellation of Credit Card Debt in
Exemptions................................................................. C-1 TaxSlayer ............................................................ D-65
Personal Exemptions.................................................. C-2 Tab E: Adjustments
Overview of the Rules for Claiming an Adjustments to Income .............................................. E-1
Exemption for a Dependent..................................... C-3 Educator Expenses ................................................... E-2
Qualifying Child of More Than One Person ............... C-4 Health Savings Account (HSA) Helpful Hints ............ E-3
Table 1: Dependency Exemption................................ C-5 Publication 4885 Screening Sheet for Health
Table 2: Dependency Exemption Savings Accounts (HSA) ........................................ E-5
for Qualifying Relative.............................................. C-6 Alimony Requirements (Instruments
Table 3: Children of Divorced or Executed After 1984)............................................... E-6
Separated Parents or Parents Who Live Apart ....... C-8 IRA Deduction............................................................ E-7
Worksheet for Determining Support........................... C-9 Student Loan Interest Deductions at a Glance.............E-8
Tab D: Income Tab F: Deductions
Income Quick Reference Guide ................................ D-1 Exhibit 1 Standard Deduction for Most People............ F-1
Armed Forces Gross Income ..................................... D-2 Persons Not Eligible for the Standard
How/Where to Enter Income...................................... D-3 Deduction................................................................. F-1
Form W-2 Instructions................................................ D-4 Standard Deduction Chart for People Born
Interest Income .......................................................... D-7 Before January 2, 1953 or Who Are Blind............... F-2
Tax Exempt Interest ................................................... D-9 Standard Deduction Worksheet for Dependents........ F-2
Seller Financed Mortgage Interest........................... D-10
1
Itemized Deductions................................................... F-3 Education Expenses....................................................J-1
Schedule A Itemized Deductions............................. F-5 Worksheet 1-1 Taxable Scholarship and
Travel Expenses......................................................... F-9 Fellowship Income....................................................J-1
Deductible Entertainment Expenses When Highlights of Education Tax Benefits
Are Entertainment Expenses Deducted?.............. F-10 for Tax Year 2017......................................................J-2
50% Limit.................................................................. F-11 Education Credits........................................................J-4
Deductible Transportation Expenses........................ F-12 Determining Qualified Education Expenses................J-6
Recordkeeping......................................................... F-13 Entering Education Benefits........................................J-7
Student Under Age 24 Claiming American
Tab G: Nonrefundable Credits Opportunity Credit....................................................J-9
Nonrefundable Credits................................................G-1
Form 1116 Foreign Tax Credit.................................G-2 Tab K: Finishing the Return
Child and Dependent Care Credit Expenses.............G-5 Completing the e-file Section..................................... K-1
Credit for Child & Dependent Care Expenses PIN Guidelines........................................................... K-6
Decision Tree...........................................................G-6 Form 8453, Transmittal for an IRS E-file Return......... K-6
Form 2441 Credit for Child and Dependent Quality Review Process.............................................. K-7
Care Expenses .......................................................G-7 TaxSlayer Basic Quality Review Process................... K-8
Retirement Savings Contributions Credit Return Signature...................................................... K-12
Decision Tree...........................................................G-9 Deceased Taxpayer.................................................. K-12
Child Tax Credit........................................................G-12 Power of Attorney..................................................... K-13
Additional Child Tax Credit General Eligibility............G-12 Printing the Tax Return............................................. K-13
Interview Child Tax Credit......................................G-13 Distributing Copies of Returns.................................. K-13
Credit for the Elderly or the Disabled Decision Tree.....G-14 Where to File Paper Returns.................................... K-13
Entering the Credit for the Elderly or the Disabled..........G-15 Balance Due Returns............................................... K-14
Pointers for Direct Deposit of Refunds..................... K-15
Tab H: Other Taxes, Payments and ACA How can a taxpayer avoid a balance due In the
Other Taxes and Payments......................................... H-1
future?................................................................... K-17
Affordable Care Act .........................................................H-4 Estimated Tax Payments.......................................... K-18
Types of Minimum Essential Coverage....................... H-5
Exemptions Overview................................................. H-8 Tab L: Resident/NR Alien
2017 Federal Tax Filing Requirement Resident or Nonresident Alien Decision Tree..............L-1
Thresholds Dependents.......................................... H-9 Electronic Filing of Returns with Valid ITIN..................L-2
Exemptions Form 8965 Part II .............................. H-11 Creating a Temporary TIN when the Spouse and/or
Types of Coverage Exemptions................................ H-14 Dependent(s) are Applying for an ITIN.....................L-3
Exemptions - Form 8965 Part III............................... H-15 Tab M: Other Returns
Marketplace Coverage Affordability Amended Returns .....................................................M-1
Worksheet............................................................. H-17 Amending Returns: Original Return Not Created in
How to Use the Healthcare.gov Tool........................ H-18 TaxSlayer ................................................................M-4
Federal Poverty Lines............................................... H-21 Prior Year Returns......................................................M-5
Shared Responsibility Payment................................ H-22 Filing for an Extension Using TaxSlayer?..................M-7
Premium Tax Credit - Form 1095-A Overview.......... H-24
Premium Tax Credit - Form 8962.............................. H-27 Tab N: Using TaxSlayer Desktop
Premium Tax Credit - Special Situations ................. H-28 Navigating TaxSlayer Pro Classic (Desktop).............. N-1
Premium Tax Credit - Handling Unexpected APTC Start a New Return..................................................... N-4
Repayments .......................................................... H-29 Form 1040.................................................................. N-6
Allocation of Shared Policy Amounts ....................... H-30 Desktop Sub-menus................................................... N-7
Alternative Calculation for Year of Marriage.............. H-30 View Form Option....................................................... N-9
Applicable Figure Table............................................ H-31 How to Use the Calculator........................................ N-10
Printing from Desktop ............................................. N-11
Tab I: Earned Income Credit Personal Information ............................................... N-13
Earned Income Table....................................................I-1 Personal Information-Dependents .......................... N-16
Common EIC Filing Errors...........................................I-1 ACA........................................................................... N-18
Summary of EIC Eligibility Requirements.....................I-2 ACA-Form 8965 and Marketplace exemptions......... N-20
EIC General Eligibility Rules.........................................I-3 ACA-Form 8965 and IRS exemptions....................... N-21
EIC With a Qualifying Child..........................................I-4 ACA-Form 8965 and partial coverage...................... N-22
EIC Without a Qualifying Child.....................................I-5 ACA-Dependents MAGI........................................... N-23
Qualifying Child of More than One Person...................I-5 ACA-Form 8962, Premium Tax Credits..................... N-24
Disallowance of the Certain Refundable Credits..........I-6 Form W-2.................................................................. N-25
Tab J: Education Benefits Income Other Compensation................................. N-27
Tax Treatment of Scholarship and Fellowship Interest and/or Dividend............................................ N-28
Payments..................................................................J-1 Schedule C or C-EZ/1099 MISC............................... N-30
2
Schedule D............................................................... N-37
Schedule D-Loss Carryover and Sale
of Main Home ......................................................... N-38
Sale of Main Home................................................... N-39
Income - Form 1099-R.............................................. N-40
Income - Form 1099-R Disability.............................. N-43
Income - Form 1099-SSA 1099................................ N-44
Income - Form 1099-SSA & RRB 1099.................... N-45
Income - Form RRB 1099......................................... N-46
Income - K-1............................................................. N-47
Income Other Income............................................ N-50
Credits - Child Care ................................................. N-52
Tab O: Using TaxSlayer Pro Online
Setting TaxSlayer Pro Online as a Favorite..............O-1
Pro Online Homepage................................................O-2
Navigating TaxSlayer Pro Online.............................O-3
Navigating TaxSlayer...............................................O-6
Contingency Plan Option..........................................O-14
Tab P: Partner Resources
Information for Assisting People with Disabilities....... P-1
Identity Theft Job Aid for Volunteers........................... P-2
Frequent Taxpayer Inquiries....................................... P-3
Useful Publications and Forms................................... P-4
Where to File.............................................................. P-5
Wheres My Refund - Its Quick, Easy and Secure..... P-6
Interactive Tax Assistant (ITA).................................... P-6
Tab Q: TaxSlayer Admin
Optional Contingency Plans for Maintaining
Site Operations........................................................Q-1
TaxSlayer Pro Alternative Solution
Contingency Plan....................................................Q-3
Rejected Returns........................................................Q-3
(Top) Reject Codes.....................................................Q-4
Index...........................................................................Q-5
Taxpayer Civil Rights............................ Inside back cover
Contact Information for Volunteers................ Back Cover
3
4
How to Use This Guide
This publication is designed to assist you in preparing an accurate paper or software-prepared return using TaxSlayer.*
The decision trees and interview tips are from your training materials and Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax Guide
(For Individuals). Use these tools during the dialogue with the taxpayerask the right questions; get the right answers.
Note: Publication 17 can be linked and researched electronically via WWW.IRS.gov.
Also available via WWW.IRS.gov is the Interactive Tax Assistant (ITA), which is an excellent tool to guide you through
answers to tax law questions.
*TaxSlayer is a copyrighted software program owned by Rhodes Computer Services. All screen shots that appear
throughout the official Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) training materials
are used with the permission of Rhodes Computer Services.
Note:
1. TaxSlayer screen shots in this guide may not be updated for current tax law. Generally, the screens depicted mirror
the last years version. However, there are some instances where there are embedded references to earlier tax
years.
2. Not all forms are authorized for all volunteer programs. Forms intended specifically for the Military VITA Program
will be annotated as such. Volunteers should only provide tax assistance based on their level of certificationbasic,
advanced, military, international, or Health Savings Accounts.
SPEC allows volunteers to use the IRS provided software to prepare and electronically file their own tax return and the
returns of family and friends. Unlike VITA/TCE returns, these returns have no income or tax law limitations.
Note: Volunteers are reminded to use this publication as a guide. The software may change after this publication goes
to print. As a result, the screen images contained in this publication may vary in appearance, order, or functionality from
the final version of the software you will use at the site. Some changes will be minor and self-explanatory. If additional
information is needed, check TaxSlayers VITA/TCE Blog at https://vitablog.taxslayerpro.com/.
5
6
Fact Sheet Quality and Oversight Updates for 2018 Filing Season
Update: The TaxSlayer National Custom Questions Page includes a question used to provide the number of returns
prepared using one or more virtual methods at VITA/TCE sites. To ensure an accurate count, volunteers should ask the
site coordinator if uncertain how to answer this question.
Why: As part of the filing season debrief, SPEC canvassed partners and employees regarding this question and
determined the question was unclear and suggestions were received on how to better word this question for Filing Season
2018.
New: The Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA) Forensic Training is now a recorded training. The training can be viewed at:
https://www.webcaster4.com/Webcast/Page/1104/21105. The volunteer will still be required to participate in a Question &
Answer conference call.
Why: The open season to become a CAA is now year-round. This change allows volunteers to take the Forensic Training
when it is most convenient to them.
New: The Civil Rights Unit has made a change to their name in their address. The address is now:
Internal Revenue Service
Civil Rights Unit
1111 Constitution Avenue, NW, Room 2413
Washington, DC 20224
(Email complaints) edi.civil.rights.division@irs.gov
Why: The name used in the address will now match the current name for the operating unit.
Reminders:
Reminder: All SPEC Employees are asked to promote ITIN Program changes by sharing ITIN outreach material with
SPEC Partners.
Why: To assist ITIN holders with the renewal of expiring ITIN and provide guidance, including where taxpayers can go to
get assistance, if needed.
Reminder: The SPEC Director must approve all policy changes that alter the current Quality Site Requirements (QSR),
software agreements, e-file requirement and security policies.
Why: To keep quality standards, security requirements or other license agreements from being in jeopardy.
SPEC Employees Only:
New: 2018 Filing Season Readiness Training will focus on refresher training on specific tax law topics and will include
entry into TaxSlayer software and how to determine accuracy during quality reviews. This recommendation is based on
feedback provided by SPEC employees.
Why: To equip SPEC employees with the tools needed to review returns, write training materials, conduct employee
performance reviews and/or educate partners.
New: TaxSlayer mini-training sessions will be held in August and September. The training will include TaxSlayer practice
sessions and a knowledge check.
Why: SPEC employees will become more familiar with using TaxSlayer and eliminate training gaps.
7
Scope of Service
Volunteers are trained to assist in the filing of Form 1040 and certain schedules and forms. To be covered under the
Volunteer Protection Act, volunteers must stay within the scope of the VITA/TCE programs and prepare returns for
which they achieved certification. This chart covers limitations or expansion of scope of service for each certification
level. The check mark indicates within scope for that level of certification. The light gray areas indicate tax law topics
not covered under that certification level. Form 1040 line items omitted from this chart are out of scope. Within each
line item, there are specific elements that are out of scope for the VITA/TCE programs as indicated in the training.
This list is not all-inclusive.
VITA/TCE Hot Line Assistors column has been added below. For more information see Publication 5220, VITA/TCE
Volunteer Site Scope & Referral Chart.
Can Hotline Assistors
Address these Tax Law
Form 1040 Topics with VITA/TCE
Line # Description Information Reporting Document Basic Advanced Volunteer?*
Filing Status See Note 1 See Note 1
1 Single Yes
2 Married filing jointly Yes
3 Married filing separately Yes
4 Head of household Yes
5 Qualifying widow(er) Yes
Exemptions
6a - d Exemptions Yes
Income See Note 2 See Note 2
7 Wages, salaries, tips, etc. W-2 Yes
8a - b Taxable interest, tax-exempt interest 1099-INT Yes
9a - b Ordinary dividends, qualified dividends 1099-DIV Yes
10 Taxable refunds, etc. 1099-G Yes
11 Alimony received Yes
12 Business income or (loss) 1099-MISC, Box 7 See Note 3 No
13 Capital gain or (loss) 1099-B See Note 4 No
15a - b IRA distributions, taxable amount 1099-R See Note 5 Yes
16a - b Pensions and annuities, taxable amount 1099-R, RRB 1099-R See Note 5 See Note 5A Yes
17 Rental real estate (Military certification only) ** 1099-MISC, Box 1 No
17 Royalties 1099-MISC, Box 2 & Sch K-1 See Note 6 No
19 Unemployment compensation 1099-G Yes
20a - b Social Security benefits, taxable amount SSA-1099, RRB-1099 Yes
Yes
21 Other income - varies 1099-MISC, Box 3 See Note 7 See Note 7
(COD is No)
Note 1 Limitation: Foreign Student certification only for taxpayers with F, J, M & Q visas
Note 2 Limitation: Military certification only Combat Zone, Incentive Pay, Re-Enlistment, Education Repayment,
Recruitment Bonus
Limitation: Advanced certification only- Unreported Tips
Limitation: International certification only Foreign Pay
Note 3 Limitation: Schedule C Follow the Schedule C-EZ guidelines, except up to $25,000 of expenses are allowed and
more than one Schedule C can be prepared if the taxpayers have more than one business
Note 4 Limitation: Wash sales shown on Form 1099-B or brokerage statements only
Note 5 Limitation: lf taxable amount has been determined
Note 5A Limitation: When taxable amount cannot be determined
Note 6 Limitation: Only royalty income on Form 1099-MISC, Box 2 and Sch K-1
* If the VITA/TCE Hotline is unable to answer questions related to the tax law topic and you have performed your due diligence in seeking the
answer, do not prepare the return. Please refer the taxpayer to a professional return preparer.
** Rental income and expenses are in-scope only for Military families renting their personal residence.
8
Scope of Service (continued)

Adjusted Gross Income
23 Educator expenses Yes
Certain business expenses of reservists
24 No
(Military certification only)
Health Savings Account deduction 5498-SA, 1099-SA, W-2
25 See Note 7 See Note 7 No
(HSA certification only) (Box 12, Code W)
26 Moving expenses (Military certification only) Yes (Job related only)
27 Deductible part of self-employment tax Yes
30 Penalty on early withdrawal of savings 1099-INT Yes
31a - b Alimony paid, recipients SSN Yes
32 IRA deduction Yes
33 Student loan interest deduction 1098-E Yes
34 Reserved Yes
Tax and Credits
Check if: blind/born <1/2/1953
39a Yes
Total boxes checked
39b If your spouse itemizes on a separate return Yes
40 Standard deduction Yes
40 Itemized deductions Yes
42-44 Exemptions, Taxable income, Tax Yes
46 Excess APTC repayment 1095-A Yes
48 Foreign tax credit 1099-INT or 1099-DIV See Note 8

See Note 8 No
49 Credit for child and dependent care expenses W-2 and/or Provider Statement Yes
50 Education credits 1098-T Yes
51 Retirement savings contributions credit W-2, Box 12 Yes
52 Child tax credit Yes
53 Residential energy credit No
54 Credit for the elderly or the disabled Yes
Other Taxes
57 Self-employment tax Yes
Unreported social security and Medicare tax from
58 No
Form 4137 only
Additional tax on IRAs, other qualified retirement
59 1099-R See Note 10 See Note 10 Yes
plans, etc.
60b First time homebuyer credit repayment Yes
61 Health care: individual responsibility Yes
Note 7 Limitation: HSA certification only (requires Basic certification or higher) HSA Distributions /Contributions
Limitation: COD for credit cards and home foreclosures (requires Advanced certification)
Limitation: International certification only Foreign earned income exclusion
Note 8 Limitation: International certification only if Form 1116 needed
Note 9 Limitation: Nonbusiness energy property credit is in scope (page 2 of Form 5695)
Note 10 Basic certification: automatic calculation only
Advanced certification or higher: to remove addition to tax
9
Scope of Service (continued)

Payments
64 Federal income tax withheld from W-2 and 1099 No
2017 estimated tax payments and amount applied

65 Yes
from 2016
66a Earned income credit (EIC) Yes
Nontaxable combat pay election (Military
66b W-2, Box 12, Code Q No
certification only)
67 Additional child tax credit Yes
68 American opportunity credit 1098-T Yes
69 Net premium tax credit 1095-A Yes
70 Amount paid with request for extension No
71 Excess social security and tier 1 RRTA SSA-1099, RRB-1099 Yes
Refund
75 Amount overpaid No
76a-d Bank account information No
77 Amount you want applied to 2018 estimated tax No
Amount You Owe
78 Amount you owe No
Third Party Designee No
Identity Protection PIN section No
10
VITA/TCE Quality Site Requirements
All taxpayers using the services offered through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the
Elderly (TCE) Programs should be confident they are receiving accurate tax return preparation and quality service. The
purpose of the ten Quality Site Requirements (QSR) is to ensure quality and accurate tax return preparation and consistent
site operations. The QSR are required to be communicated to all volunteers and partners to ensure IRS and partner mutual
objectives are met. The 10 requirements are listed below.
1. Certification
2. Intake/Interview & Quality Review Process
3. Photo ID and Taxpayer ID Numbers
4. Reference Materials
5. Volunteer Agreement
6. Timely Filing
7. Civil Rights
8. Site Identification Number (SIDN)
9. Electronic Filing Identification Number (EFIN)
10. Security
For additional information refer to Publication 5166,VITA/TCE Quality Site Requirements www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p5166.
pdf or Publication 1084, Site Coordinator Handbook https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p1084.pdf
11
Notes
12
Whats New
Important
Important Changes for 2016 Changes for 2017
DueDate
Due Date of
of Return
Return
Thedue
The duedate
dateforforfiling
filinga a2017
2016return
returnisisTuesday,
Tuesday, April
April 18,
17, 2017This is because April 15, 2018 is a Sunday
2018.
and Emancipation Day, a legal holiday in the District of Columbia, is observed on Monday, April 16, 2018.
Standard Deduction Increases
The standard deduction for taxpayers who do not itemize deductions on Schedule A (Form 1040) has
The standardThe
increased. deduction
standardfordeduction
taxpayersamounts
who do not itemize
for 2016 deductions on Schedule A (Form 1040) has
are:
increased. The standard deduction amounts for 2017 are:
$12,600 Married Filing Jointly or Qualifying Widow(er) (no change)
$12,700 Married Filing Jointly or Qualifying Widow(er) (increase of $100)
$9,350
$9,300 Head
Head of
of Household
Household (increase
(increase of
of $50)
$50)
$6,350
$6,300 Single or Married Filing Separately (increase
(no change)
of $50)
Taxpayers who are
The standard 65 and
deduction forOlder or areclaimed
an individual Blind as a dependent on another taxpayers return is either
$1,050,
For 2017, theoradditional
$350 plusstandard
the dependents earned
deduction income,who
for taxpayers whichever
are 65 is
andgreater
older (no change)
or blind is:
Taxpayers
$1,550 Single or Head of Household (no
who are 65 and Older or are Blindchange)
$1,250 for married taxpayers or Qualifying Widow(er) (no change)
For 2016, the additional standard deduction for taxpayers who are 65 and older or blind is:
Personal Exemption
$1,550 Amount
Single or Head of Household (no change)
The amountfor
$1,250 a taxpayer can deduct(no
married taxpayers forchange)
each exemption is $4,050 for 2017 (no change).
Retirement Savings Contribution Credit Income Limits Increased
Personal Exemption Amount
To claim this credit, the taxpayers modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) must not be more than $31,000
forThe amount
Single, a taxpayer
Married can deduct or
Filing Separately, forQualifying
each exemption increased
Widower to of
(increase $4,050
$250).for 2016must
MAGI (increase
not beofmore
$50).than
$46,500 (increase
Retirement of $375)
Savings for Head of Household,
Contribution and $62,000
Credit Income Limits(increase
Increasedof $500) for Married Filing Jointly.
Earned Income
In order to Credit
claim this credit, (EIC)
the taxpayers MAGI must not be more than $30,750 for Single, Married Filing
ForSeparately,
2017, theor Qualifying
maximum Widower
credit (increase
increased to: of $250). MAGI must not be more than $46,125 (increase of
$350) for with
$6,318 Headthree
of Household, and $61,500 (increase of $500) for Married Filing Jointly.
or more children
$5,616 with two children
Earned Income Credit (EIC)
$3,400 with one child
Amount of Credit Increased
$510 with no children
For 2016, the maximum credit is:
Earned Income Amount Increased
$6,269 with three or more children
To be eligible for a full or partial credit, the taxpayer must have earned income of at least $1 but less than:
$48,340
($53,930 if Married Filing Jointly) with three or more qualifying children
$3,373 with
$45,007 one child
($50,597 if Married Filing Jointly) with two qualifying children
$39,617 ($45,207 if Married Filing Jointly) with one qualifying child
$15,010 ($20,600 if Married Filing Jointly) with no qualifying child
Earned Income Amount Increased
To be eligible for a full or partial credit, the taxpayer must have earned income of at least $1 but less than:
Investment Income
$47,955
Taxpayers ($53,505
whose if Married
investment FilingisJointly)
income with$3,450
more than three or more claim
cannot qualifying children
the EIC.
$44,684 ($50,198 if Married Filing Jointly) with two qualifying children
$39,296 ($44,846 if Married Filing Jointly) with one qualifying child
$14,880 ($20,430 if Married Filing Jointly) with no qualifying child
Important Changes for 2016 iii
NEW-1
Important Changes for 2017- continued
Standard Mileage Rate
For 2017, the following rates are in effect:
53.5 cents per mile for business miles driven
17 cents per mile driven for medical or moving purposes
14 cents per mile driven in service of charitable organizations (no change)
Itemized Deductions
Medical - The 7.5% threshold for taxpayers who have attained the age of 65 has expired. All taxpayers are now subject to
a 10% AGI threshold.
Education Benefits
American opportunity credit for 2017 is gradually reduced (phased out) if taxpayers MAGI is between
$80,000 and $90,000 ($160,000 and $180,000 if Married Filing Jointly). Taxpayers cannot claim a credit if
their MAGI is $90,000 or more ($180,000 or more if Married Filing Jointly). There is no change.
To claim the American opportunity credit, taxpayers must provide the educational institutions employer
identification number (EIN) on Form 8863. Taxpayers should be able to obtain this information from Form
1098-T or the educational institution.
Lifetime learning credit for 2017 is gradually reduced (phased out) if taxpayers MAGI is between $56,000
and $66,000 ($112,000 and $132,000 if Married Filing Jointly). Taxpayers cannot claim a credit if their MAGI
is $66,000 or more ($132,000 or more if Married Filing Jointly).
Student loan interest deduction begins to phase out for taxpayers with MAGI in excess of $65,000
($135,000 for joint returns) and is completely phased out for taxpayers with MAGI of $80,000 or more
($165,000 or more for joint returns).
Eligible Long-Term Care Premium Limits Increased
For 2017, the maximum amount of qualified long-term care premiums includible as medical expenses has
increased. Qualified long-term care premiums up to the amounts shown below can be included as medical
expenses on Schedule A (Form 1040) Itemized Deductions.
$410: age 40 or under
$770: age 41 to 50
$1,530: age 51 to 60
$4,090: age 61 to 70
$5,110: age 71 and over
TIP The limit on premiums is for each person.
Foreign Earned Income Exclusion

For 2017, the maximum foreign earned income exclusion will be $102,100, up from $101,300 for 2016.
Link & Learn Taxes Optional Courses
Health Savings Account (HSA) Deduction
The annual contribution limits on deductions for HSAs for individuals with self-only coverage is $3,400 (increase of $50)
and $6,750 for family coverage (no change). There is an additional contribution amount for taxpayers who are age 55 or
older.
NEW-2
Important
Important Changes for 2016 Changes for 2017- continued
Deduction Amount and Modified AGI Limit for Traditional IRA Contributions Increased
Due Date of Return
For 2017, the maximum IRA deduction remains at $5,500 ($6,500 if age 50 or older). For taxpayers who are
The duecovered
date forby
filing a 2016 return
a retirement plan is
at Tuesday,
work, theApril 18, 2017
deduction for contributions to a traditional IRA is reduced (phased
out) if the modified AGI is:
More than $99,000 but less than $119,000 for a married couple filing a joint return or a qualifying
aymentTheforstandard
a taxable deduction
year shall
widow(er) forbetaxpayers
if both spouses are whocovered
do not itemize deductions
by a retirement planon Schedule A (Form 1040) has
increased.
wing the The
close ofMorestandard
the taxable deduction
year
than $62,000 if the amounts
but less for 2016for
than $72,000 are:a single individual or head of household, or
return.
$12,600 Married
Less Filing Jointly
than $10,000 for a or Qualifying
married Widow(er)
individual filing a(no change)return
separate
Foran
$9,300
, AOTC. IRA of
Head contributor
Household who is not covered
(increase of $50) by a workplace retirement plan and is married to someone who is covered, the
Important
deduction
$6,300 Singletax
Changes
is phased
or credit.
out if the for 2016
couples income is between $186,000 and $196,000.
Married Filing Separately (no change)
e American opportunity
a tax return
The standard deduction
for a period of threefor an individual claimed as a dependent on another taxpayers return is either
$1,050, or $350 plus the dependents earned income, whichever is greater (no change)
l no longer beExtended
Taxpayersvalid
who as are
of the
65 appli-
andand Older orLegislation
Expired are Blind
Due Date of Return
For 2016,
As the additionalthe
a reminder, standard deduction
Protecting Americansfor taxpayers who are
from Tax Hikes Act65
ofand older
2015 or blind
(PATH is:
Act) made the following tax provisions
The due date for filing a 2016 return is Tuesday, April 18, 2017
permanent:
$1,550 Single or Head of Household (no change)
Adjustments for up to $250 for educator classroom expenses. This provision was modified to include certain expenses
Standard
$1,250 Deduction
for married taxpayers Increases
(no change)
related to professional development courses the taxpayer takes related to the curriculum they teach or to their stu-
Thedents.
standard
Thededuction
deduction for taxpayers who do not itemize deductions on Schedule A (Form 1040) has
Personal Exemption Amountamount will be indexed for inflation for future years.
increased. The
Qualified standardDistribution
Charitable deduction amounts
(QCD). for 2016 are:
The amount a taxpayer
$12,600 can deduct for each exemption increased to $4,050 for 2016 (increase of $50).
State and Married Filing sales
local general Jointlytax
ordeduction.
Qualifying Widow(er) (no change)
Retirement
The Savings
$9,300
PATH Head
Act Contribution
of Household
extended Credit
(increase
the following Income
of $50)
provisions Limits
only Increased
through December, 31 2016. They are expired for 2017:
pportunity tax credits improperly
Exclusion from gross income of MAGI
qualified principal residence
In orderto $6,300
claim Single
this credit, or Married
the Filing
taxpayers Separately
must (nobe
not more thanindebtedness
change) $30,750 for Single, Married Filing
C or AOTC is disallowed
Mortgage using defi- premiums deductible as qualified residence interest
insurance
Separately, or Qualifying Widower (increase of $250). MAGI
The standard deduction for an individual claimed as a dependent must not be moreonthan $46,125
another (increase
taxpayers of is either
return
Deduction
$350) for Head for qualified
of Household, tuition & fees
$1,050, or $350 plusand the$61,500 (increase
dependents earnedof $500)
income,forwhichever
Married Filing Jointly.(no change)
is greater
Credit for nonbusiness energy property (residential energy credit)
EarnedUnder
Income
Taxpayers Credit
who are(EIC)
65 and Older or are Blind
n & related expenses theactually paid.Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act, ITINs that have not been used on a federal tax return at least
Protecting
Amountonceof 2016,
For Credit Increased
in thethe
lastadditional standard deduction
three consecutive for taxpayers
years will expire Dec. 31,who areand
2017, 65 and
ITINsolder
withormiddle
blind is:
digits 70, 71, 72 or 80 will also
expire
the at
$1,550 the end
Singleof the year.
or Head Affected taxpayers
is: of Household (no change)who expect to file a tax return in 2018 must submit a renewal application.
plansFor 2016,
to include maximum
computer credit
equipment
$6,269 with
$1,250 foror
three married taxpayers (no change)
more children
$5,572 with two childrenmay enact additional legislation that will affect taxpayers after this publication goes to print. Any changes will be
Personal Exemption Amount
Congress
$3,373 with one reflected
child in Publication 4491-X, VITA/TCE Training Supplement, available in mid-January on www.irs.gov.
The amount
Congress may enact a taxpayer
addi- can deduct for each exemption increased to $4,050 for 2016 (increase of $50).
tional legislation that will affect
Retirement
taxpayers after thisSavings
publicationContribution Credit Income Limits Increased
Earned
goes Income
to print.Amount
Affordable Care
Any changes Increased
Act: Qualified Small Employer Health Reimbursement Arrangement
In order to claim this credit, the taxpayers MAGI must not be more than $30,750 for Single, Married Filing
will(QSEHRA)
be reflected in Publication
To be4491-X,
eligible for a full
Separately,
VITA/TCE or partial credit,
or Qualifying
Training Widowerthe (increase
taxpayer must haveMAGI
of $250). earned income
must not beof more
at least $1 $46,125
than but less (increase
than: of
New rules
Supplement,
$47,955$350) enacted
for available
($53,505Head of inunder
if Married the 21st Century
mid-Filing Jointly)
Household, and $61,500 Cures Act
(increase
with three of 2016
of $500)
or more allow eligible
for Married
qualifying employers
childrenFiling Jointly.to offer a qualified
January
smallon www.irs.gov.
employer health reimbursement arrangement (QSEHRA) to their eligible employees. Under a
$44,684 ($50,198
Earned Incomeif Married Filing
Credit Jointly) with two qualifying children
(EIC)
QSEHRA, an eligible employer can reimburse eligible employees for health care costs, including premiums
$39,296for ($44,846
Marketplace if Married
health Filing Jointly) with onewere
insurance. If taxpayers qualifying
coveredchild
under a QSEHRA, their employer should have
Amount of Credit Increased
$14,880 ($20,430
reported if Married
the annual Filing Jointly)
permitted benefit with no12
in box qualifying
of Form child
W-2 with code FF. If the QSEHRA is affordable for a
For 2016, the maximum credit is:
month, no PTC is allowed for the month. If the QSEHRA is unaffordable for a month, taxpayers must reduce
$6,269
the monthlywithPTC three
(butor more
not belowchildren
-0-) by the monthly permitted benefit
Importantamount.
Changes for 2016 iii
$3,373 with one child NEW-3

W-2 Verification Code
This initiative is one in a series of steps to combat tax-related identity theft and refund fraud. The objective is to verify Form
W-2 data submitted by taxpayers on e-filed individual tax returns. The form will include these instructions to taxpayer and
tax preparers:
If you are e-filing and if there is a code in Box 9, enter it when prompted by your software. This code assists the IRS in
validating the W-2 data submitted with your return. The code is not entered on paper-filed returns.
Proposed Regulations
Certain changes were made to Publications 4491 and 4012 due to proposed regulations published by the IRS on January
19, 2017. These regulations are proposed to apply to taxable years beginning after the date the regulations are published
as final regulations in the Federal Register. However, pending the issuance of the final regulations, taxpayers may choose
to apply these proposed regulations in any open taxable years. Since most of these provisions are advantageous to
taxpayers, we have included them in the training publications:
An individual is not a qualifying child of a person if that person is not required to file an income tax return, and either
does not file an income tax return or files an income tax return solely to claim a refund of estimated or withheld taxes.
A taxpayer may treat a homes fair market rental value as a cost of maintaining a household (instead of the sum of
payments for mortgage interest, property taxes, and insurance).
The annual cost of maintaining a household when a qualifying child or dependent resides in the household for less
than the entire taxable year, in certain circumstances, may be prorated on a monthly basis.
The proposed regulations also, in certain circumstances, recognize the creation of a new household during a year and
treat shared living quarters as separate households.
If an individual meets the definition of a qualifying child for more than one taxpayer and the individual is not treated
as the qualifying child of one of those taxpayers under the tiebreaker rules, then the individual will not prevent that
taxpayer from claiming the childless EIC if he or she meets the other requirements of that section.
Governmental payments (such as TANF) made to a recipient that is used, in part, to support others are treated as
support of the others provided by the recipient, whereas any part of such a payment used for the support of the
recipient would constitute support of the recipient by a third party. For example, if a mother receives TANF and uses
the TANF payments to support her children, the proposed regulations treat the mother as having provided that
support.
A nonpermanent failure to occupy a home by reason of illness, education, business, vacation, military service,
institutionalized care for a child who is permanently and totally disabled, or incarceration may be treated as a
temporary absence due to special circumstances. This definition of temporary absence applies to the residency test
for a qualifying child, to the relationship test for a qualifying relative who does not have a listed relationship to the
taxpayer, and to the requirements to maintain a household for surviving spouse and Head of Household.
The qualifying child of a Qualifying Widow(er) is a child, stepchild, or adopted child who qualifies as the taxpayers
dependent for the year or would qualify as the taxpayers dependent except that he or she does not meet the gross
income test, or does not meet the joint return test, or except that the taxpayer may be claimed as a dependent by
another taxpayer.
A taxpayer other than the adopting individual may be eligible to claim an exemption for an adopted child. For
example, the parent of the adopting parent may claim a dependency exemption for the legally adopted child of the
taxpayers son or daughter (just as biological grandparents may claim an exemption for a grandchild) if all other
requirements are met.
An authorized placement agency also may be an Indian Tribal Government (ITG), or an agency or organization
authorized by, or a political subdivision of, an ITG that places children in foster care or for adoption.
NEW-4
Changes to Order of Pub 4012
Tabs B, K and N have been reconfigured.
Tab B is now called Starting a Return/Filing Status and contains all the information about the intake sheet, starting a
return in TaxSlayer, determining the filing status and entering it in TaxSlayer.
Tab K has been renamed Finishing the Return and now contains information from the prior years Tabs K and N
about completing the e-File section, performing the quality review and printing the return.
Tab N contains information about moving around in TaxSlayer. It also contains the list of navigation hints that used to
be in Tab D.
ACA information has been moved to Tab H, which is now called Other Taxes, Payments and ACA.
NEW-5
Notes
NEW-6
Legislative
Extenders
Caution: This provision was expired at the time this publication went to print. This content is being provided in the event
that it is extended for the current tax year. Publication 4491-X, released in January, will notify volunteers if they should
consult this information, and will contain any legislative changes to this provision.
Discharge of Qualified Principal Residence

Indebtedness
Use the job aid on on the following page to determine if the debt forgiveness on the main home is within scope.
Taxpayers may exclude from income certain debt forgiven or canceled on their principal residence. This exclusion is
applicable to the discharge of qualified principal residence indebtedness. If the canceled debt qualifies for exclusion
from gross income, the debtor may be required to reduce tax attributes (certain credits, losses, and basis of assets) by
the amount excluded.
If a property was taken by the lender (foreclosure) or given up by the borrower (abandonment), the lender usually sends
the taxpayer Form 1099-A, Acquisition or Abandonment of Secured Property. Form 1099-A will have information needed
to determine the gain or loss due to the foreclosure or abandonment.
If the debt is canceled, the taxpayer will receive Form 1099-C, Cancellation of Debt. If foreclosure/abandonment and
debt cancellation occur in the same calendar year, the lender may issue only Form 1099-C, including the information
that would be reported on Form 1099-A.
Volunteers may assist taxpayers who meet the following requirements:

The home was never used in a business or as rental property
The debt was not canceled because the taxpayer filed bankruptcy
The taxpayer isnt in bankruptcy when he/she comes to the site for assistance
Form 1099-C doesnt include an amount for interest
The debt must be a mortgage used only to buy, build, or substantially improve the taxpayers primary residence,
i.e., this money was not used to pay off credit cards, medical/dental expenses, vacations, etc.
The mortgage was secured by the taxpayers primary residence
The mortgage was not more than $2 million ($1 million if Married Filing Separately)
TaxSlayer Hint: To exclude debt forgiven on principal residence, go to Other Income, Cancellation of Debt then
Exclusions (Form 982).
Note 1: Form 1099-C, Box 3 (Interest if included in Box 2, Amount of Debt Canceled) and Box 16 out-of-scope.
Note 2: If a bankruptcy, out-of-scope.
Note 3: If personally liable for the debt, sales price is the lesser of balance of principal outstanding (Form 1099-A,
box 2) or fair market (Form 1099-A, box 4); if not personally liable on the debt, sales price is the balance or principal
outstanding.
EXT-1
Publication 4731-A
Screening Sheet for Foreclosures/Abandonments and
Cancellation of Debt
If the taxpayer is in bankruptcy, the tax return is out of scope for the VITA/TCE Programs.
Instructions: Use this Screening Sheet to assist taxpayers with Form(s) 1099-A and/or 1099-C with cancellation of
debt issues.
Use Part I for taxpayers with only Form 1099-A for a foreclosure or abandonment of their principal residence.
Use Part II for taxpayers with Form 1099-C, or both Forms 1099-A and 1099-C resulting from cancellation of debt on
a home mortgage loan.
Use Publication 4731 for taxpayers with Form 1099-C resulting from cancellation of credit card debt.
Part I Home Mortgage Loan

step
Did the taxpayer receive Form 1099-A, Acquisition or YES Go to Step 2
1 Abandonment of Secured Property, from their home mortgage NO Advise the taxpayer to get the docu-
lender? mentation from the home mortgage lender.
step
Did the taxpayer ever use the home in a trade or business or YES Go to Step 6
2 as rental property? NO Go to Step 3
step
Is box 5 of Form 1099-A checked indicating a recourse loan in YES The sales price is the lesser of box
3 which the taxpayer is personally liable? 2 (Balance of principal outstanding) or box
4 (Fair Market Value of Property) on Form
1099-A.
NO The sales price is the amount in box 2
(Balance of principal outstanding) on Form
1099-A. The taxpayer is not personally liable
(non-recourse loan).
step
Ask the taxpayer for the cost or basis of the home.
4
Refer to Publication 523, Selling your Home, for further information, if needed.
step
Report the sale of the personal residence on Form 8949 and
5 Schedule D.
If the disposition of the property results in a:
Gain The taxpayer may qualify for the Section 121 exclusion ($250,000 or
$500,000 if Married Filing Jointly) of the gain on the sale of a principal
residence, if all requirements are met.
Loss The taxpayer cannot claim a loss on the sale or disposition of a principal residence. Use
adjustment Code L on Form 8949 to exclude this loss.
Refer to Publication 4012 (Tab D), Entering Forgiveness of
Qualified Principal Residence Indebtedness for further
information.
step
These tax issues are outside the scope of the volunteer Additional Resources:
6 program. Publication 523, Selling your Home
Refer the taxpayer to: Publication 525, Taxable and Nontaxable
www.irs.gov for the most up-to-date information. Income
The Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS): 1-877-777-4778, Publication 4681, Canceled Debts,
TTY/TDD 1-800-829-4059. TAS may help if the problem Foreclosures, Repossessions, and
cannot be resolved through normal IRS channels. Abandonments
A professional tax preparer.
Publication 4731-A (10-2017) Catalog Number 67470W Department of the Treasury Internal Revenue Service www.irs.gov
Publication 4731-A (12-2017) Catalog Number 67470W Department of the Treasury Internal Revenue Service www.irs.gov
EXT-2
Publication 4731-A
Screening Sheet for Foreclosures/Abandonments and
Cancellation of Debt
Instructions: Use this Screening Sheet to assist taxpayers with Form(s) 1099-A and/or 1099-C with cancellation of
debt issues.
Use Part I for taxpayers with only Form 1099-A for a foreclosure or abandonment of their principal residence.
Use Part II for taxpayers with Form 1099-C, or both Forms 1099-A and 1099-C resulting from cancellation of debt
on a home mortgage loan.
Use Publication 4731 for taxpayers with Form 1099-C resulting from cancellation of credit card debt.
Part II Home Mortgage Loan

step Did the taxpayer receive Form 1099-C, Cancellation of Debt, from their home YES Go to Step 2
1 mortgage lender and is the information shown on the form correct? NO Go to Step 6
Note: Answer yes if the taxpayer has received a Form 1099-A and Form
1099-C.
step Did the taxpayer ever use the home in a trade or business or as rental YES Go to Step 6
2 property?
NO Go to Step 3
step Does box 3 of Form 1099-C show any interest or does box 6 show code A YES Go to Step 6
3 indicating bankruptcy?
NO Go to Step 4
Note: If box 6 is not marked with code A but the taxpayer has subsequently
OHGEDQNUXSWF\DQVZHU\HV
step $VNWKHIROORZLQJTXHVWLRQVWRGHWHUPLQHLIWKHGLVFKDUJHGGHEWLVTXDOLHG
4 principal residence indebtedness:
a. Was the mortgage taken out to buy, build, or substantially improve the a. YES Go to Step 4b
taxpayers principal residence? (Note: A principal residence is generally the NO Go to Step 6
home where the taxpayer lives most of the time. A taxpayer can have only
one principal residence at any one time.)
b. YES Go to Step 4c
b. Was the mortgage secured by the taxpayers principal residence?
NO Go to Step 6
c. Was any part of the mortgage used to pay off credit cards, purchase a car,
pay for tuition, pay for a vacation, pay medical/dental expenses, or used c. YES Go to Step 6
for any other purpose other than to buy, build, or substantially improve the NO Go to Step 4d
principal residence?
d. Was the mortgage amount more than $2 million ($1 million if Married Filing d. YES Go to Step 6
Separately)? NO Go to Step 5
step 7KHGLVFKDUJHGGHEWLVTXDOLHGSULQFLSDOUHVLGHQFHLQGHEWHGQHVV
5 7KH0RUWJDJH)RUJLYHQHVV'HEW5HOLHI$FWRIDOORZVIRUWKHH[FOXVLRQRIGLVFKDUJHGTXDOLHGSULQFLSDO residence
indebtedness canceled in 2007, 2008, and 2009; the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 extended the exclusion
for tax years 2010 through 2012; the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 extended the exclusion to 12/31/2013; and, the
Tax Increase Prevention Act of 2014 extended the exclusion to 12/31/2014.
The Protecting Americans From Tax Hikes Act of 2015, extended the exclusion for tax years 2015 and 2016, and also allowed
for debt discharge after 2016 to be excluded from taxable income if the taxpayer entered into a binding written agreement
before January 1, 2017.
7KHYROXQWHHUVKRXOGFRPSOHWHWKHDSSOLFDEOHOLQHVRQ)RUPDQGOHLWZLWKWKHWD[SD\HUVUHWXUQ,IWKH residence was
disposed of, the taxpayer also may be required to report the disposition (sale) on Form 8949 and Schedule D.
step These tax issues are outside the scope of the volunteer Additional Resources:
6 program. The taxpayer may qualify to exclude all or some of the Publication 523, Selling your Home
discharged debt. However, the rules involved in the mortgage
Publication 525, Taxable and Nontaxable Income
debt relief exclusions are complex.
Publication 4681, Canceled Debts, Foreclosures,
Refer the taxpayer to: Repossessions, and Abandonments
www.irs.gov for the most up-to-date information. Publication 4705, Overview of Mortgage Debt
The Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS): 1-877-777-4778, Forgiveness
TTY/TDD 1-800-829-4059. TAS may help if the problem Form 982, Reduction of Tax Attributes Due to
cannot be resolved through normal IRS channels. Discharge of Indebtedness (and Section 1082
A professional tax preparer. Basis Adjustment) and Instructions
Publication
Publication 4731-A
4731-A (10-2017)
(10-2017) Catalog
CatalogNumber
Number67470W
67470WDepartment
Departmentofofthe TreasuryInternal
theTreasury InternalRevenue
RevenueService
Servicewww.irs.gov
www.irs.gov
EXT-3
EXT-3
Entering Forgiveness of Qualified Principal
Residence Indebtedness
Use the job aid on the preceding pages to

determine if the debt forgiveness on the
main home is within scope.
Form 982, Reduction of Tax Attributes

Due to Discharge of Indebtedness, must
be filed with the taxpayers return to
report the excluded amount of discharged
indebtedness and the reduction of certain
tax attributes:
Indicate whether the Form 1099-C
was issued to the taxpayer or spouse
Check the box for Discharge
of qualified principal residence
indebtedness
Enter the amount of primary
mortgage debt cancelled (Form 1099-
C Box 2)
EXT-4
Entering Forgiveness of Qualified Principal
Residence Indebtedness (continued)
If the taxpayer had a portion of the

mortgage debt cancelled but kept the
home (loan modification or mortgage
workout),
Enter the amount of debt cancelled in
Part II, Reduction of Tax Attributes, on
the line for Applied to reduce the basis
of your principal residence.
If the taxpayer disposed of the home
due to foreclosure or Abandonment,
and the lender cancelled the remaining
mortgage debt:
No entry is made in Part II, Reduction of
Tax Attributes
Report the gain or loss from Form 1099-
A in the Sch D/Capital Gains section
The basis is the taxpayers adjusted
basis in the home
The sale price (amount realized) is
based on whether the taxpayer is
personally liable (recourse loan) or not
personally liable (nonrecourse loan) for
the debt:
If the taxpayer is personally liable, the
sale price is the lesser of the balance of
the principal mortgage debt outstanding
or the fair market value
If the taxpayer isnt personally liable,
then the sale price is the full amount of
the outstanding debt, as reflected on
Form 1099-A
For both recourse and nonrecourse
loans, add any proceeds the taxpayer
received from the foreclosure sale to the
amount realized.
If the taxpayer ends up with a gain on
the sale, some or all of the gain can
be excluded under the rules for sale of
main home, if the taxpayer qualifies
A loss on the main home cant be
deducted
EXT-5
Tuition and Fees Deduction at a Glance

Dont rely on this table alone. Refer to Publication 17 complete details.
Question Answer
What is the maximum benefit? You can reduce your income subject to tax by up to $4,000.
Limit on modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) $160,000 if married filing joint return; $80,000 if single, head of
household, or qualifying widow(er). MFS is not eligible.
Where is the deduction taken? As an adjustment to income on Form 1040.
For whom must the expenses be paid? A student enrolled in an eligible educational institution who is
either;
you
your spouse, or
your dependent for whom you claim an exemption
What tuition and fees are deductible? Tuition and fees required for enrollment or attendance at an
eligible postsecondary educational institution, but not including
personal, living or family expenses, such as room and board.
What records does the taxpayer need? Beginning in tax year 2016, the tuition and fees deduction wont
be allowed unless the taxpayer possesses a valid information
return (Form 1098-T, Tuition Statement) from the educational
institution.
EXT-6
Residential Energy Credits

TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Deductions>Credits>Residential Energy
Credit; 1040 View Line 53, or Keyword "5695"
Part I of Form 5695- Residential Energy Efficient Property Credit, is available for taxpayers who pur-
chased qualified residential alternative energy equipment, such as solar hot water heaters, geothermal
heat pumps and wind turbines. This part of the form is out of scope. Taxpayers that have these ex-
penses should be referred to a professional tax preparer.
Part II, Form 5695 - Key points about the Nonbusiness Energy Property Credit:
A total combined credit limit of $500 ($200 limit for windows) for all tax years after 2005.
The maximum credit for residential energy property costs is $50 for any advanced main
air circulating fan; $150 for any qualified natural gas, propane, or oil furnace, or hot water
boiler; and $300 for any item of energy-efficient building property. Any of following that
meet the required efficiency rating may qualify as energy-efficient building property. See the
Instructions for Form 5695 for details:
-Electric heat pump water heater; electric heat pump; central air conditioner;
natural gas, propane, or oil water heater; a stove that uses the burning of biomass fuel to heat
your home or heat water for your home.
The credit applies to:
Qualified energy efficiency improvements such as adding insulation, energy-efficient

exterior windows and doors, and qualifying metal or asphalt roofs. (doesn't include
labor costs for onsite preparation, assembly or installation)
Qualified residential energy property improvements such as energy-efficient heating
and air conditioning systems. For a complete list of items see Form 5695. (includes
labor costs for onsite preparation, assembly, or original installation)
The improvements must be made to the taxpayers main home located in the United States
(must be existing home).
Qualifying improvements must be placed into service by the taxpayer during the tax year.
Expenditures which are made from subsidized energy financing can't be used to figure the
credit.
The credit is taken on Part II, Form 5695. See Form 5695 and Instructions for more information.
Note: Not all ENERGY STAR products qualify for a tax credit. Beginning in 2016, exterior doors, exterior
windows, and skylights will only be eligible for the nonbusiness energy property credit if they meet or exceed
the specific requirements of the version 6.0 Energy Star program. For detailed information about qualifying
improvements, visit the U.S. Department of Energys EnergyStar Web site https://www.energystar.gov/
Manufacturers must certify that their products meet new standards and they must provide a written
statement to the taxpayer such as with the product packaging or in a printable format on the
manufacturers Web site. Taxpayers should keep a copy of the manufacturers certification statement
and receipts with their other important tax records.
EXT-7
Notes
EXT-8
A. Who Must File
Chart A For Most People Who Must File
If you may be claimed as a dependent by another taxpayer, you must file as a dependent whether you are being
claimed or not. See Chart B for filing requirements.
THEN file a return

if your gross
AND at the end of 2017 you income was at
If your filing status is... were...* least...**
Single under 65 $10,400
65 or older $11,950
Married filing jointly*** under 65 (both spouses) $20,800
65 or older (one spouse) $22,050
65 or older (both spouses) $23,300
Married filing separately
(see the instructions for Form any age $ 4,050
1040, line 3)
Head of household
under 65 $13,400
(see the instructions for Form
1040, line 4)
65 or older $14,950
Qualifying widow(er) (see the under 65 $16,750
instructions for Form 1040, line 5)
65 or older $18,000
* If you were born on January 1, 1953 you are considered to be age 65 at the end of 2017. (If your spouse died in
2017 or if you are preparing a return for someone who died in 2017, see Pub. 501)
** Gross income means all income you received in the form of money, goods, property, and services that isnt
exempt from tax, including any income from sources outside the United States or from the sale of your main
home (even if you can exclude part or all of it).
Do not include any social security benefits unless
(a) you are married filing a separate return and you lived with your spouse at any time in 2017 or
(b) one-half of your social security benefits plus your other gross income and any tax-exempt interest is
more than $25,000 ($32,000 if married filing jointly).
If (a) or (b) applies, see the instructions for lines 20a and 20b to figure the taxable part of social security
benefits you must include in gross income.
Gross income includes gains, but not losses, reported on Form 8949 or Schedule D.
Gross income from a business means, for example, the amount on Schedule C, line 7, or Schedule F, line 9.
But, in figuring gross income, do not reduce your income by any losses, including any loss on Schedule C,
line 7, or Schedule F, line 9.
*** If you did not live with your spouse at the end of 2017 (or on the date your spouse died) and your gross income
was at least $4,050, you must file a return regardless of your age.
Individuals who do not have a filing requirement based on this chart should also check Chart C, Other Situations
When You Must File, and Chart D, Who Should File. Individuals with earned income but who do not have a filing
requirement may be eligible for the Earned Income Credit.
A-1
Chart B For Children and Other Dependents
If your parent (or any other taxpayer) may claim you as a dependent, use this chart to see if you
must file a return.
In this chart, unearned income includes taxable interest, ordinary dividends, and capital gain distributions. It also
includes unemployment compensation, taxable social security benefits, pensions, annuities, and distributions
of unearned income from a trust. Earned income includes salaries, wages, tips, professional fees, and taxable
scholarship and fellowship grants. Gross income is the total of your unearned and earned income.
Single Dependents
Either 65 or over or blind You must file a return if any of the following apply.
1. Your unearned income was over $2,600 ($4,150 if 65 or older and blind).
2. Your earned income was over $7,900 ($9,450 if 65 or older and blind).
3. Your gross income was more than the larger of
a. $2,600 ($4,150 if 65 or older and blind) or
b. Your earned income (up to $6,000) plus $1,900 ($3,450 if 65 or older
and blind).
Under 65 and not You must file a return if any of the following apply.
blind 1. Your unearned income was over $1,050.
2. Your earned income was over $6,350.
a. $1,050, or
b. Your earned income (up to $6,000) plus $350.
Married Dependents
Either age 65 or older or You must file a return if any of the following apply.
blind 1. Your unearned income was over $2,300 ($3,550 if 65 or older and blind).
2. Your earned income was over $7,600 ($8,850 if 65 or older and blind).
3. Your gross income was at least $5 and your spouse files a separate return
and itemizes deductions.
a. $2,300 ($3,550 if 65 or older and blind), or
b. Your earned income (up to $6,000) plus $1,600 ($2,850 if 65 or older
and blind).
Under age 65 and not blind You must file a return if any of the following apply.
1. Your unearned income was over $1,050.
2. Your earned income was over $6,350.
3. Your gross income was at least $5 and your spouse files a separate return
and itemizes deductions.
a. $1,050, or
b. Your earned income (up to $6,000) plus $350.
Tax for Certain Children who have Unearned Income (Kiddie Tax)
For children under age 18 and certain older children, unearned income over $2,100 is taxed at the parents
rate if the parents rate is higher than the childs. For this purpose, unearned income includes all taxable
income other than earned income, such as taxable interest, ordinary dividends, capital gains, rents, royalties,
etc. It also includes taxable social security benefits, pension and annuity income, taxable scholarship and
fellowship grants not reported on Form W-2, unemployment compensation, alimony, and income received as
the beneficiary of a trust. If the childs unearned income is more than $2,100, and the child is required to file a
tax return, Form 8615 must be used to figure the childs tax. Form 8615 is out of scope.
A-2
Chart C Other Situations When You Must File
You must file a return if any of the conditions below apply for 2017.
1. You owe any special taxes, including any of the following.

a. Alternative minimum tax.
b. Additional tax on a qualified plan, including an individual retirement arrangement (IRA), or other tax-
favored account. But if you are filing a return only because you owe this tax, you can file Form 5329 by
itself.
c. Household employment taxes. But if you are filing a return only because you owe this tax, you can file
Schedule H by itself.
d. Social security and Medicare tax on tips you did not report to your employer or on wages you
received from an employer who did not withhold these taxes.
e. Recapture of first-time homebuyer credit. See the instructions for line 60b.
f. Write-in taxes, including uncollected social security and Medicare or RRTA tax on tips you reported to
your employer or on group-term life insurance and additional taxes on health savings accounts. See
the instructions for line 62.
g. Recapture taxes. See the instructions for line 44 and line 62.
2. You (or your spouse, if filing jointly) received HSA, Archer MSA or Medicare Advantage MSA distributions.
3. You had net earnings from self-employment of at least $400.
4. You had wages of $108.28 or more from a church or qualified church-controlled organization that is exempt
from employer social security and Medicare taxes.
5. Advance payments of the premium tax credit were made for you, your spouse, or a dependent who en-
rolled in coverage through the Marketplace. You or whoever enrolled you should have received Form(s)
1095-A showing the amount of the advance payments.
Chart D Who Should File

1. You had income tax withheld from your pay.
2. You made estimated tax payments for the year or had any of your overpayment for last years estimated tax
applied to this years taxes.
3. You qualify for the earned income credit. See Publication 596, Earned Income Credit (EIC), for more infor-
mation.
4. You qualify for the additional child tax credit. See Form 1040 Instructions for more information on this credit.
5. You qualify for the refundable credit for prior year minimum tax. See Form 8801, Credit for Prior Year Mini-
mum Tax Individuals, Estates, and Trusts. (Out of scope)
6. You qualify for a refundable American Opportunity Credit.
7. You receive a 1099-B and the gross proceeds plus other income exceeds the filing limits in Chart A.
8. You receive Form 1099-S, Proceeds From Real Estate Transactions.
9. You qualify for the federal tax on fuels (out of scope).
10. You are required to file a state return.
11. You qualify for the Premium Tax Credit.
A-3
Notes
A-4
B. Starting a
Return/Filing Status
Form 1040 Job Aid
Tab B
Tab B
Tab C
Tab D
Tab E
Tab
EXT
B-1
Form 1040 Job Aid-Page 2
Tab F
Tab H
Tab G
Tab J
Tab G
Tab H
Tab I
Tab G
Tab J
Tab H
Tab K
B-2
Form 13614-C Job Aid for Volunteers
Form 13614-C Job Aid for Volunteers
View photo IDs Name as shown on Taxpayers current Use Tab C to verify Refer to Tab P Refer to Pub 17, for If not a US citizen, use Tab L
for each taxpayer Social Security address where IRS taxpayer and if taxpayer is a definition of Legally Resident or Nonresident Alien
and spouse records (see Tab B should mail refund spouses dependen- victim of identity Blind, Totally and Decision Tree to determine if
(if filing a joint Determining the Last and/or other corre- cy status. theft. Permanently Disabled return is within scope.
return). Name of Taxpayer). spondence. and Full Time Student.
Taxpayer must include everyone who Verify birth date for Verbally confirm the If not a US citizen, If taxpayers mari- The Certified See Page 3 to
lived with the taxpayer and anyone each person includ- number of months use Tab L Resi- tal status changed Volunteer Pre- verify if taxpayer
the taxpayer supported who lived ed on the tax return. each person listed dent or Nonresi- in 2017 (Married parer will com- listed additional
elsewhere. Note: Incorrect birth lived in the taxpay- dent Alien Decision or Divorced), plete these names.
dates may cause ers' home. Tree to determine verify how it may questions for
Always confirm this information during efile rejection. Note: Consider any if return is within affect ACA and if each listed Use page 4 to
the interview process, especially if temporary absences. scope. the return is within person during record interview
the taxpayer did not list anyone. scope. the interview. notes.
Important Reminder: The Intake/Interview

Important Reminder: Review all process may be considered incomplete if: Important Reminder: Do not r efer
information in Part II before using - questions are left unanswered in Parts I thru VI taxpayers to the Voltax e-mail address
Tabs B and C to determining - Unsure answers are not addressed with the for IRS help or refund information.
Dependency Exemptions and Filing taxpayer and then annotated to yes or no.
Status. - applicable Certified Volunteer Preparer shaded Refer to the back cover of Pub 4012 for
areas are not completed . appropriate IRS referrals.
B-3
Form 13614-C Job Aid for Volunteers Page 2
Important Reminder: During the interview, question taxpayers about any items marked
Unsure and mark them Yes or No. Modify any taxpayer answers to correctly
reflect all information obtained during the interview.
Certification indica-
tors (B, A, HSA, M)
See Tab D Form W-2
should only be used Instructions
to assign returns to
preparers. If yes, verify tips were
reported to employer. If
Final certification not, complete Form
level determinations 4137 (Advanced).
should be made by See Tab D for infor-
using the Scope of mation on how to enter
Service Chart after taxable scholarships.
completing the
Verify the return is with-
interview process. in the scope of VITA/
TCE Programs.
Not all of these If yes, determine if taxa-

items are reported ble.
on F1040, Line 21.
See Pub 17.
Verify eligibility for See Tab E for definition

Savers Credit. of alimony.
See Tab J and compare

Include only quali- credits and adjustments.
fied unreimbursed
expenses (Sch A)
See Pub 17. Advise taxpayer of rec-
ords requirements
Student Loan Inter- (Sch A) see Pub 17.
est adjustment
See Tab E.
The taxpayer may If yes, ask taxpayer for

have a requirement child care providers
to repay their credit. TIN.
Ask taxpayer for a Check for tax benefits

copy of last years for declared disaster
return to locate areas.
necessary
information.
Form 13614-C Job Aid for Volunteers Page 3

Refer taxpayers
who have ques- You must use the flow
tions or need cover- chart in Tab ACA for all
age to this web taxpayers.
site/phone number.
Taxpayer must provide
a copy of Form 1095-A
if they received insur-
ance through the mar-
ketplace.
Complete for
taxpayers and Receiving advanced
dependents after payments creates an
answering questions automatic filing
in the Certified Vol- requirement.
unteer Preparer See Pub 17.
Section
(Page 1, Part II).
B-4
Starting a New Return
The Start a New Tax Return option

enables you to begin the data input
process for a client.
Social Security Number Entry

The next step in creating a new tax return is entering the taxpayers Social
Security number in the space provided. To ensure accuracy, you are required to
enter the SSN twice.
B-5
Starting a New Return (continued)
If the SSN is already in use, TaxSlayer Pro displays the following:
If the SSN doesnt match, TaxSlayer Pro displays the following:
Pulling Prior Year Data

If no prior year data is found for this SSN, you will see the message below. Select Continue.
If prior year data is found for this SSN, TaxSlayer Pro displays the following:
B-6
Starting a New Return (continued)
Select what you would like to pull forward by checking the boxes to the left of the items listed on the Pull Data to Current
Return screen. When satisfied, check the Yes field and then hit the continue button located at the bottom right of the
screen. Your prior year information will then be pulled to the current year tax return.
Caution - Be sure to verify that all EINs and addresses on Forms W-2 and 1099-R are still the same as the prior
year when using carryforward.
B-7
Determination of Filing Status Decision Tree
See TaxSlayer entries later in this tab.
Start Here
Were you married on the last YES

day of the year?1
NO Did you and your spouse

Did your spouse die during YES MARRIED FILING JOINTLY NO live apart all of the last 6
the year? OR MARRIED FILING months of the year?5,6
SEPARATELY7
NO
Do all the following apply? YES
Your spouse died in 2015 or 2016 and you did
not remarry before the end of 2017. YES
NO
In the year of death, you were entitled to file a Do all of the following apply?
joint return with your spouse. You file a separate return from
You paid more than 1/2 the cost of keeping up your spouse.
your home for the required period of time.2 QUALIFYING WIDOW(ER) You paid more than 1/2 the
Your son or daughter (but not a foster child) cost of keeping up your home
or stepchild lived in your home all year3 and for the required period of time.2
was your dependent or would qualify as your Your home is the main home
dependent except that: he or she does not for your child, stepchild or
meet the gross income test, or does not meet foster child for more than 1/2
the joint return test, or except that you may be
the year.3 A grandchild does
claimed as a dependent by another taxpayer.
Dont include a grandchild or foster child. not meet this test.
You claim an exemption for the
NO child.4
Do both of the following apply? NO SINGLE

You paid more than 1/2 the cost of
keeping up your home for the required
period of time.2
A qualifying person, (see Who Is a YES
YES HEAD OF HOUSEHOLD 8
Qualifying Person Qualifying You To File
as Head of Household? chart), lived with
you in your home for more than 1/2 the
year.3
Footnotes:
1. Answer NO to this question if, on the last day of the year, you were legally separated from your spouse under a divorce or separate
maintenance decree. Answer NO for individuals who have entered into a registered domestic partnership, civil union, or other similar
relationship that is not called a marriage under state (or foreign) law. Answer YES if taxpayer is married regardless of where the spouse lives.
2. Include in the cost of upkeep expenses such as rent, mortgage interest, real estate taxes, insurance on the home, repairs, utilities and food
eaten in the home. Under proposed regulations, a taxpayer may treat a homes fair market rental value as a cost of maintaining a household
instead of the sum of payments for mortgage interest, property taxes and insurance. See Cost of Keeping Up a Home worksheet later in this
tab.
3. See Publication 17, Filing Status, for rules applying to birth, death, or temporary absence during the year. There are special rules for claiming
your parent as a qualifying person for head of household. See the Who Is a Qualifying Person Qualifying You To File as Head of Household?
chart later in this tab)
4. Unless the childs other parent claims him or her under rules for children of divorced or separated parents or parents who lived apart.
5. You are considered unmarried for head of household purposes if your spouse was a nonresident alien at any time during the year and you
do not choose to treat your nonresident spouse as a resident alien. However, your spouse is not a qualifying person for head of household
purposes. You must have another qualifying person (see the Who Is a Qualifying Person Qualifying You To File as Head of Household? chart
later in this tab) and meet the other tests to be eligible to file as a head of household.
6. The term considered unmarried refers to a taxpayer who has been deserted or abandoned by their spouse and is therefore no longer part
of a functioning marital unit. Your spouse is considered to live in your home even if he or she is temporarily absent due to illness, education,
business, vacation, military service, or incarceration.
7. If the taxpayer wants to file MFS, emphasize the advantages to Married Filing Jointly and the possibility of filing Form 8379, Injured Spouse
Claim & Allocation (if appropriate). See Pub 17, Filing Status, MFS Special Rules for list of disadvantages. Respect a taxpayers decision to
file MFS. If domiciled in a community property state see Pub 555.
8. There can be multiple households within a shared living quarters if certain requirements are met.
Note: If one spouse dies and the other remarries in the same year, the deceased spouse files Married Filing Separately.
B-8
Filing Status - Interview Tips
Probe/Action: Ask the taxpayer:
step Were you married on December 31 of the tax year? (Answer yes if state common law If YES, go to Step 2.
rules were met; or if your spouse died during the year and you didnt remarry by the If NO, go to Step 4.
1 end of the year; answer no for individuals who have entered into a registered domestic
partnership, civil union, or other similar relationship that isnt called a marriage under
state (or foreign) law.)
step Do you and your spouse wish to file a joint return? If YES, STOP. Your
filing status is married
2 filing jointly.
If NO, go to Step 3.2
step Do all the following apply? If YES, STOP. You are

You file a separate return from your spouse considered unmarried
3 You paid more than half the cost of keeping up your home for the required period of and your filing status is
time.1 head of household.
Your spouse didnt live in your home during the last 6 months of the If NO, STOP. Your filing
tax year 3 status is married filing
Your home was the main home of your child, stepchild, or foster child for more than half separately5.
the year. Include any individual who would qualify as your dependent except: he or she
does not meet the gross income test, does not meet the joint return test, or if you could
be claimed as a dependent of another taxpayer. (a grandchild doesnt meet this test)
You claim an exemption for the child (unless the noncustodial parent claims the child
under rules for divorced or separated parents or parents who live apart)
step
Did your spouse die in 2015 or 2016? If YES, go to Step 5.
4 If NO, go to Step 6.
step Do all the following apply? If YES, STOP.

5 You were entitled to file a joint return with your spouse for the year your Your filing status is
spouse died qualifying widow(er)
You didnt remarry before the end of this tax year with dependent child.
You have a child or stepchild who lived with you all year, except for temporary absences If NO, go to Step 6.
or other limited exceptions, and who is your dependent or who would qualify as your
dependent except that: he or she does not meet the gross income test, does not meet
the joint return test, or except that you may be claimed as a dependent by another
taxpayer. Dont include a grandchild or foster child.
You paid more than half the cost of keeping up the home for the required period of
time.1
step Do all the following apply? If YES, STOP. Your

6 You paid more than half the cost of keeping up the home for the required period of filing status is head of
time.1 household.4
A qualifying person, (see the Who Is a Qualifying Person Qualifying You To File as If NO, STOP. Your filing
Head of Household? chart later in this tab), lived with you in your home for more than status is single.
1/2 the year4
Footnotes
1
Include in the cost of upkeep expenses such as rent, mortgage interest, real estate taxes, insurance on the home, repairs, utilities and food eaten
in the home. Under proposed regulations, a taxpayer may treat a homes fair market rental value as a cost of maintaining a household instead of
the sum of payments for mortgage interest, property taxes and insurance. See Cost of Keeping Up a Home worksheet in this tab.
2
You are considered unmarried for head of household purposes if your spouse was a nonresident alien at any time during the year and you dont
choose to treat your nonresident spouse as a resident alien. However, your spouse isnt a qualifying person for head of household purposes. You
must have another qualifying person (see the Who Is a Qualifying Person Qualifying You To File as Head of Household? chart later in this tab) and
meet the other tests to be eligible to file as a head of household.
3
The term considered unmarried refers to a taxpayer who has been deserted or abandoned by their spouse and is therefore no longer part of a
functioning marital unit. Your spouse is considered to live in your home even if he or she is temporarily absent due to illness, education, business,
vacation , military service, or incarceration.
4
You cant use head of household filing status based on any person who is your dependent only because he or she lived with you for the entire year
(for example, a companion or a friend).
5
If filing a MFS return in a Community Property state, allocate income and expense according to state law. May be treated as out of scope.
B-9
Who Is a Qualifying Person Qualifying
You To File as Head of Household?1
DONT use this chart alone. Use as directed by the interview tips on the previous page.
IF the person is your . . . AND . . . THEN that person is . . .
qualifying child (such he or she is single a qualifying person, whether
as a son, daughter, or or not you can claim an
grandchild who lived with exemption for the person.
you more than half the he or she is married and you can claim an a qualifying person.
year and meets certain exemption for him or her
other tests)2 he or she is married and you cant claim an not a qualifying person.3
exemption for him or her
qualifying relative4 who is you can claim an exemption for him or her5 a qualifying person.6
your father or mother you cant claim an exemption for him or her not a qualifying person.
qualifying relative4 other he or she lived with you more than half a qualifying person.
than your father or the year, and you can claim an exemption
mother. for him or her, and is one of the following:
son, daughter, stepchild, foster child,
or a descendant of any of them; your
brother, sister, half-brother, half-sister
or a son or daughter of any of them; an
ancestor or sibling of your father or mother;
or stepbrother, stepsister, stepfather,
stepmother, son-in-law, daughter-in-law,
father-in-law, mother-in-law, brother-in-law or
sister-in-law5
he or she didnt live with you more than half not a qualifying person.
the year
he or she isnt related to you in one of the not a qualifying person.
ways listed above and is your qualifying
relative only because he or she lived with you
all year as a member of your household (for
example, a companion or a friend)
you cant claim an exemption for him or her not a qualifying person.
1
A person cant qualify more than one taxpayer to use the head of household filing status for the year.
2
The term qualifying child is covered in the Exemptions/Dependency tab. Note: If you are a noncustodial parent,
the term qualifying child for head of household filing status doesnt include a child who is your qualifying child for
exemption purposes only because of the rules described under Children of divorced or separated parents. If you
are the custodial parent and those rules apply, the child generally is your qualifying child for head of household
filing status even though the child isnt a qualifying child for whom you can claim an exemption.
3
This person is a qualifying person if the only reason you cant claim the exemption is that you can be claimed as a
dependent on someone elses return.
4
The term qualifying relative is covered in the Exemptions/Dependency tab.
5
If you can claim an exemption for a person only because of a multiple support agreement, that person isnt a
qualifying person. See Multiple Support Agreement, in Pub 17.
6
You are eligible to file as head of household even if your parent, whom you can claim as a dependent, doesnt live
with you. You must pay more than half the cost of keeping up a home that was the main home for the entire year for
your parent. This test is met if you pay more than half the cost of keeping your parent in a rest home or home for
the elderly.
B-10
Cost of Keeping Up a Home
Keep for Your Records
________________________________________________
Amount
You Total
Paid Cost
Property Taxes* $ $
Mortgage interest expenses* $ $
Rent $ $
Utility charges $ $
Property insurance* $ $
Food consumed
on the premises $ $
Other household expenses $ $
**Under proposed regulations, fair
market rental value $ $
(instead of the sum of payments
for property taxes, mortgage
interest expenses, and
property insurance)
Totals
Minus total amount you paid ( )
Amount others paid $

If the total amount you paid is more than the amount
others paid, you meet the requirement of paying more
than half the cost of keeping up the home
________________________________________________________
Note:
Costs you include. Include in the cost of keeping up a home expenses such as
rent, mortgage interest, real estate taxes and insurance on the home, repairs,
utilities, and food eaten in the home. As an alternative to including mortgage
interest, real estate taxes, and insurance under proposed regulations, you may
include the fair market rental value of the home.
Costs you dont include. Dont include the cost of clothing, education, medical
treatment, vacations, life insurance, or transportation. Also, dont include the value
of your services or those of a member of your household.
B-11
Entering Basic Information
TaxSlayer Navigation: Basic Information>Filing Status
After collecting necessary information from Form 13614-C, Intake/Interview & Quality Review Sheet and properly applying
the tax law, you should choose your clients filing status. If you are unsure of which filing status to select, refer to Tab B.
Select the circle next to the correct filing status and click Continue.
Use the Tab B to determine

Filing Status
Note: Most nonresident aliens and dual status aliens have different filing requirements and may have to file Form
1040NR or Form 1040NR-EZ. In this case, the return is out of scope. Refer taxpayer to a site with Foreign Student
certification. Resident aliens generally are taxed the same as U.S. citizens.
The second screen, under the Filing Status tab, is used to determine the spouses return status.
B-12
Determining the Last Name of Taxpayer
A name control is a sequence of letters derived from a taxpayers last name that is used by IRS in processing the
tax return filed by the taxpayer. It is important that the combination of name control and taxpayer identification
number (TIN) provided on an electronically filed return match IRSs record of name controls and TINs.
In e-file, a taxpayer's TIN and name control must match the data in the IRS database. If they dont match, the e-filed
return will reject and generate an Error Reject Code.
Individuals may create a mySocialSecurity account at https://secure.ssa.gov/RIL/SiView.do to see how their
information shows up on Social Security Administration records. In addition to using mySocialSecurity, preparers
can also call and verify the taxpayers information with Social Security in the presence of the taxpayer.
Name Controls for Individual Tax Returns

1. Primary Name Control (SEQ 0050) of Form 1040/1040A/1040EZ must equal the first significant characters
of the primary taxpayers last name. No leading or embedded spaces are allowed. The first left-most position
must contain an alpha character. Omit punctuation marks (except hyphens), titles and suffixes within last
name field.
Examples:
Individual Name Primary/Secondary Name Control
Enter in TaxSlayer IRS Database

Individual Name on
Primary/Secondary
SSN/ITIN Card(s)
First Name Field Last Name Field Name Control
John Brown John Brown BROW
Walter Di Angelo Walter Di Angelo DIAN
Ronald En, Sr. Ronald En EN
Thomas Lea-Smith Thomas Lea-Smith LEA-
Joseph Corn & Mary Smith Joseph Corn CORN
Mary Smith SMIT
Roger ONeil Roger ONeil ONEI
Kenneth McCarty Kenneth McCarty MCCA
FNU Smith (First Name Unknown) FNU Smith SMIT
Smith (No First Name) Smith SMIT
B-13
Determining the Last Name of Taxpayer (continued)
2. Consider certain suffixes as part of the last name (i.e., Armah-Bey, Paz-Ayala, Allar-Sid). Particular attention
must be given to those names that incorporate a mothers maiden name as a suffix to the last name. For
example, traditional Hispanic last names include the taxpayers fathers name followed by a space and the
taxpayers mothers maiden name. A married taxpayers last name remains the same and either simply adds on
the spouses fathers name (resulting in 3 names forming the last name) or deletes the mothers maiden name
and adds on the spouses fathers name (sometimes the spouses fathers name is preceded by de).
Examples:
Individual Name Primary Name Control
Individual Name on Enter in TaxSlayer IRS Database Primary
SSN/ITIN Card FirstName Field LastName Field Name Control
Abdullah Allar-Sid Abdullah Allar-Sid ALLA
Jose Alvarado Nogales Jose Alvarado Nogales ALVA
Juan de la Rosa Y Juan de la Rosa Y Obregon DELA
Obregon
Pedro Paz-Ayala Pedro Paz-Ayala PAZ-
Donald Vander Neut Donald Vander Neut VAND
Otto Von Wodtke Otto Von Wodtke VONW
John Big Eagle John Big Eagle BIGE
Mary Her Many Horses Mary Her Many Horses HERM
Ted Smith Gonzalez Ted Gonzalez GONZ
Maria Acevedo Smith Maria Smith SMIT
Robert Garcia Garza Robert Garza Hernandez GARZ
Hernandez
3. Below are examples of Indo-Chinese last names and the derivative Name Control. Some Indo-Chinese names
have only two characters. Indo-Chinese names often have a middle name of Van (male) or Thi (female).
Examples:
Individual Name Primary/Secondary Name Control
Individual Name on Enter in TaxSlayer IRS Database
SSN/ITIN Card FirstName Field LastName Field Primary/Secondary
Name Control
Binh To La Binh La LA
Kim Van Nguyen Kim Nguyen NGUY
Nhat Thi Pham Nhat Pham PHAM
Jin Zhang Qui & Yen Yin JinZhang Qui QUI
Chiu Yen Yin Chiu CHIU
B-14
Entering Basic Information (continued)
TaxSlayer Navigation: Basic Information>Personal Information
Next is an input screen that gathers the taxpayers personal information.
You must input birth date. Include

spouse if filing a joint return. Use
drop down boxes to select Month,
Date and Year.
Verify spouses last name with

Social Security card. If different
from the taxpayers, correct the
auto-filled entry.
Enter spouses SSN. If the taxpayer is filing MFS and does

not know the SSN of the spouse, enter the spouses SSN
as 000-11-0000. You may leave the spouses DOB blank.
Without the spouses SSN, the return must be paper-filed.
This section is important for

calculation of filing status, exemption,
standard deduction, Presidential
Election Fund, and military status.
Check the box if the

taxpayer between the ages
of 18 and 24 is a full-time
student during some part
of each of any 5 calendar
months of the year. See
Tab C for full definition of
student.
Checking the taxpayer is deceased

box will generate a Date of Death box,
which must be completed. Once com-
pleted, click Continue at the bottom of
the page to proceed.
ID Theft PINs are entered in the Miscellaneous Forms Section.
Note: If the taxpayer or spouse is deceased, check the appropriate box from the list and enter the date of death when
prompted. When you print the return, the tax software prints the Deceased and the date of death next to the deceased
persons name at the top of Form 1040 page 1, as required by the IRS.
B-15
Entering Basic Information (continued)
Check the Military and foreign

address boxes if they apply.
Entering the ZIP code will cause the

city and state to auto-fill. Correct the
city name if needed.
See Note 1 for residency status.
Always ask for at least one telephone

number. The daytime phone will
appear on the printed return. Enter
area code first.
Note 1: Resident State Return - This option will allow you to select the taxpayer state of residency. Once the state has
been selected, clicking on Continue will prompt the state questions. The program will create the state return based on the
state selected. If there isnt a state return to complete, choose None from the list. The program will automatically transfer
basic information into the state return for you. Any additional states to be attached will be selected within the State Return
section of the return.
Dependent/Qualifying Child Information:

Dependents or Qualifying Person(s) are entered on the next screen. If the taxpayer is claiming dependents or other
qualifying persons on their tax return, select the YES button to begin filling in applicable information pertaining to each
dependent. To bypass the dependent entry menu, select the NO button.
B-16
Entering Dependent/Qualifying Person
TaxSlayer Navigation: Basic Information>Dependents/Qualifying Person
Note: To determine if a person qualifies as the taxpayers dependent, see Tab C.
To add multiple dependents,

click the Add button.
Note: In order for the IRS to accept the tax return electronically, ensure that:
The correct date of birth is entered

The dependents name is spelled correctly
The correct social security number is entered
If any of these three items are entered incorrectly, the IRS will reject the tax return for electronic filing purposes.
B-17
Entering Dependent/Qualifying Person (continued)
Click the dependent does not have an SSN/

ITIN/ATIN button if applicable. A statement
will appear asking, This dependent will be
completing a Form W-7, Application for ITIN
and Yes or No buttons. The Form W-7 is
located in the Federal Section>Miscellaneous
Forms. If not applying for an ITIN, select No
and enter the reason (such as the death of the
child) that the child does not have a TIN.
If you are the noncustodial parent claiming

your child as a dependent, enter Divorce/
Separation for the number of months.
If the dependent is not your qualifying child for The custodial parent who
EIC, Check the You wish to NOT claim this is not claiming their child
dependent for Earned Income Credit purposes as a dependent should
box. This will eliminate forms that determine EIC check the NOT YOUR
eligibility. DEPENDENT box.
Note: If child has an ITIN but was a resident of the U.S., be sure to mark the Check if this dependent meets the
substantial presence test box in the Dependents Section or the child tax credit will not be included on the return.
* EIC is considered for every return until the program determines that it is not viable. If you know that the dependent is not
eligible for consideration, click the box beside Check if you wish NOT to claim the dependent for Earned Income Credit
purposes. Verify names, SSN, and dates of birth with social security card to prevent rejected returns.
Qualifying Child(ren) for Earned Income Credit (EIC):
TaxSlayer calculates the amount of earned income credit if the client qualifies based on income and other requirements.
Reminder: Although age, relationship and residency requirements are the same for EIC as for dependency, support is
NOT an issue for EIC (it does not matter whether or not the child, parent, or another provides over half of the childs
support).
Enter number of months each individual lived in the taxpayers home or use Lived in Mexico if the dependent lived in
Mexico or Lived in Canada if the dependent lived in Canada use the drop-down list. Enter 12 months if dependent was
born or died during the year or was temporarily absent (school, vacation, etc.).
Carefully read the selections under the Please answer the following list. Check all that apply.
B-18
C. Exemptions /
Dependency
Exemptions
Exemptions reduce the taxpayers taxable income
Exemption Amount: $4,050
Two types:
1. Personal exemptionsone exemption for the taxpayer and, if married, one for his or
her spouse; unless either can be claimed as a dependent by another person.
2. Exemptions for dependentsone exemption for each qualifying child or qualifying
relative.
Apply the rules for exemptions for dependents using the worksheets in the Form 1040
instructions and the interview tips in this publication.
A person who may be claimed as a dependent on another taxpayers return may not claim
a personal exemption, even if the other taxpayer doesnt claim a dependency exemption for
the person. In this case, no one obtains an exemption for the person.
Any person who may be claimed as a dependent by another taxpayer may not claim another
person as a dependent.
Definitions:
Student: To qualify as a student, your child must be, during some part of each of any 5 calendar months of the year:
1. A full-time student at a school that has a regular teaching staff, course of study, and a regularly enrolled student
body at the school, or
2. A student taking a full-time, on-farm training course given by a school described in (1), or by a state, county, or
local government agency.
The 5 calendar months dont have to be consecutive.
An on-the-job training course, correspondence school, or school offering courses only through the Internet doesnt
count as a school for dependency exemption purposes.
Permanently and Totally Disabled: Your child is permanently and totally disabled if both of the following apply.
1. He or she cant engage in any substantial gainful activity because of a physical or mental condition.
2. A doctor determines the condition has lasted or can be expected to last continually for at least a year or can lead
to death.
Custodial and Noncustodial Parent: The custodial parent is the parent with whom the child lived the greater number of
nights during the year. The other parent is the noncustodial parent. If the child lived with each parent for an equal number
of nights during the year, the custodial parent is the parent with the higher adjusted gross income.
Foster Child: A foster child is an individual who is placed with you by an authorized placement agency or by judgement,
decree, or other order of any court of competent jurisdiction.
C-1
Personal Exemptions
step Were you married during any part of the If YES, go to Step 2.
1 tax year? (Answer YES if state common If NO, go to Step 7.
law rules were met.)
step Were you still married on If YES, go to Step 5.

2 December 31 of the tax year? If NO, go to Step 3. Note: Abandonment doesnt
change marital statusanswer YES if the taxpayers
responses to Steps 3 and 4 are NO.
step Did you obtain a final decree of divorce or If YES, you cant claim a personal exemption for your
separate maintenance by December 31 of former spouse. Go to Step 7 to determine if you can
3
the tax year? claim your own personal exemption.
If NO, go to Step 4.
step Did your spouse die during the tax If YES, go to Step 5.
4 year?1 If NO, go back through Steps 13 and clarify
answers.
step Are you filing a joint tax return? If YES, go to Step 7.

step Did your spouse (including a nonresident If YES to either, you cant claim a personal exemption
6 alien spouse) have any gross income or for your spouse. Go to Step 7 to see about your own
can any other taxpayer claim your spouse personal exemption.
as a dependent?2 If NO to both, you can claim a personal exemption
for your spouse. Go to Step 7 to see about your own
personal exemption.
step Can any other taxpayer claim you (or your If YES, you may not claim a personal exemption for
7 spouse if filing jointly) as a dependent on that person on a separate return or the taxpayer who
his or her return? 3 may be claimed as a dependent may not claim a
personal exemption on a joint return.
If NO, you may claim a personal exemption for
yourself (and your spouse may claim a personal
exemption, if filing jointly).
1
If his or her spouse died during the year, the taxpayer can You can claim an exemption for your nonresident alien spouse on
claim the spouses exemption if the taxpayer didnt remarry your separate return, provided your spouse has no gross income
during the year. See Publication 17 for other considerations. for U.S. tax purposes, has a SSN or ITIN, and isnt the dependent
of another U.S. taxpayer.
2
If married filing separately, the taxpayer can take his or her 3
If married filing jointly (other than to claim a refund of income tax
own exemption if no other taxpayer is entitled to claim him or her
withheld or estimated tax paid), the taxpayer cant be a dependent
as a dependent.
on another taxpayers return.
If married filing separately, the taxpayer can claim an exemption
for his or her spouse if the spouse had no gross income, isnt
filing a return, and cant be claimed as a dependent on another
taxpayers return.
C-2
Overview of the Rules for Claiming an
Exemption for a Dependent
Caution: This table is only an overview of the rules. For details, see Publication 17.
You cant claim any dependents if you, or your spouse if filing jointly, could be claimed as a dependent by another
taxpayer.
You cant claim a married person who files a joint return as a dependent unless that joint return is only to claim a
refund of income tax withheld or estimated tax paid.
You cant claim a person as a dependent unless that person is a U.S. citizen, U.S. resident alien, U.S. national, or a
resident of Canada or Mexico.1
You cant claim a person as a dependent unless that person is your qualifying child or qualifying relative.
Tests To Be a Qualifying Child Tests To Be a Qualifying Relative

1. The child must be your son, daughter, stepchild, 1. The person cant be your qualifying child or the
foster child, brother, sister, half brother, half sister, qualifying child of any other taxpayer. A child isnt
stepbrother, stepsister, or a descendant of any of them. the qualifying child of any other taxpayer if the childs
parent (or any other person for whom the child is
defined as a qualifying child) isnt required to file an
income tax return or files an income tax return only to
get a refund of income tax withheld.
2. The child must be: (a) under age 19 at the end of the 2. The person either (a) must be related to you in one
year and younger than you (or your spouse, if filing of the ways listed under Relatives who dont have to
jointly), (b) under age 24 at the end of the year, a full- live with you (see Table 2, step 2), or (b) must live with
time student, and younger than you (or your spouse, if you all year as a member of your household2 (and
filing jointly), or (c) any age if permanently and totally your relationship must not violate local law).
disabled.
3. The child must have lived with you for more than half of 3. The persons gross income for the year must be less
the year.2 than $4,050.3 Gross income means all income the
person received in the form of money, goods, property
and services, that isnt exempt from tax. Dont include
social security benefits unless the person is married
filing a separate return and lived with their spouse
at any time during the tax year or if 1/2 the social
security benefits plus their other gross income and
tax exempt interest is more than $25,000 ($32,000 if
MFJ).
4. The child must not have provided more than half of his 4. You must provide more than half of the persons total
or her own support for the year.5 support for the year.4, 5
5. The child isnt filing a joint return for the year (unless
that joint return is filed only to claim a refund of income
tax withheld or estimated tax paid).
6. If the child meets the rules to be a qualifying child
of more than one person, you must be the person
entitled to claim the child as a qualifying child. See the
Qualifying Child of More Than One Person chart.
1
There is an exception for certain adopted children.
2
There are exceptions for temporary absences, children who were born or died during the year, children of divorced or
separated parents or parents who live apart, and kidnapped children. If you obtained a final decree of divorce or separate
maintenance during the year, you cant take your former spouses exemption. This rule applies even if you provided all of your
former spouses support.
3
There is an exception if the person is disabled and has income from a sheltered workshop.
4
There are exceptions for multiple support agreements, children of divorced or separated parents or parents who live apart,
and kidnapped children.
5
A worksheet for determining support is provided later in this tab. If a person receives social security benefits and uses them
toward his or her own support, those benefits are considered as provided by the person. Benefits provided by the state to a
needy person are generally considered support provided by the state. A proposed rule on which taxpayers may choose to rely
treats governmental payments made to a recipient that the recipient uses, in part, to support others as support of the others
provided by the recipient, whereas any part of such payment used for the support of the recipient would constitute support of
the recipient by a third party. For example, if a mother receives TANF and uses the TANF payments to support her children, the
proposed regulations treat the mother as having provided that support.
C-3
Qualifying Child of More Than One Person
Tiebreaker Rules
If the child meets the conditions to be the qualifying child of more than one person, only one person can claim the child
as a qualifying child for all of the following tax benefits, unless the special rule for children of divorced or separated
parents applies1.
Dependency Exemption Child Tax Credit
Head of Household Earned Income Credit
Credit for Child and Dependent Care Expenses Exclusion from income for Dependent Care Benefits
No other person can take any of the six tax benefits listed above unless he or she has a different qualifying
child. To determine which person can treat the child as a qualifying child to claim these six tax benefits, the
following tiebreaker rules apply. Subject to these tiebreaker rules, the taxpayer and the other person may be
able to choose which person claims the child as a qualifying child.
If only one of the persons is the childs parent, the child is treated as the qualifying child of the parent.
If the parents file a joint return together and can claim the child as a qualifying child, the child is treated as the
qualifying child of the parents.
If the parents dont file a joint return together but both parents claim the child as a qualifying child, the IRS will treat the
child as the qualifying child of the parent with whom the child lived for the longer period of time during the year. If the
child lived with each parent for the same amount of time, the IRS will treat the child as the qualifying child of the parent
who had the higher adjusted gross income (AGI) for the year.
If no parent can claim the child as a qualifying child, the child is treated as the qualifying child of the person who had
the highest AGI for the year.
If a parent can claim the child as a qualifying child but no parent claims the child, the child is treated as the qualifying
child of the person who had the highest AGI for the year, but only if that persons AGI is higher than the highest AGI of
any of the childs parents who can claim the child. If the childs parents file a joint return with each other, this rule can
be applied by dividing the parents combined AGI equally between the parents.
Example: Your daughter meets the conditions to be a qualifying child for both you and your mother. Under the
rules above, you are entitled to treat your daughter as a qualifying child for all of the six tax benefits listed above for
which you otherwise qualify. Your mother isnt entitled to take any of the six tax benefits listed above unless she has
a different qualifying child. However, if your mothers AGI is higher than yours, you can let your mother treat your
daughter as her qualifying child. If you do that, your daughter isnt your qualifying child for any of the six benefits.
For more details and examples, see Pub. 17 and 501.
1: When the special rule for children of divorced or separated parents applies (see Table 3, later in this tab) and the
non-custodial parent claims the child as a dependent, the non-custodial parent may also claim the child tax credit and
any educational benefit, if all other rules are met. The custodial parent should enter the child as a non-dependent in the
software (see software entries in Tab B), because they may be eligible for the EIC, Child and Dependent Care Credit,
Exclusion from income for Dependent Care Benefits and Head of Household filing status.
C-4
Table 1: Dependency Exemption
Begin with this table for both Qualifying Child and Qualifying Relative dependents.
step Can you or your spouse (if filing jointly) be If YES: If you can be claimed as a dependent by another
claimed as a dependent on another taxpayers taxpayer, you may not claim anyone else as your
1 tax return this year? dependent.
If NO: Go to Step 2
step Was the person married as of December 31, If YES: Go to Step 3
2 2017? If NO: Go to Step 4
step Is the person filing a joint return for this tax If YES: You cant claim this person as a dependent.
3 year? (Answer NO if the person is filing a If NO: Go to Step 4
joint return only to claim a refund of income tax
withheld or estimated tax paid.)
step Was the person a U.S. citizen, U.S. resident alien, If YES: Go to Step 5
4 U.S. national, or a resident of Canada or Mexico? If NO: You cant claim this person as a dependent.
(Answer YES if you are a U.S. citizen or U.S.
national and you adopted a child who lived
with you as a member of your household all year.)
step Was the person your son, daughter, stepchild, If YES: Go to Step 6
5 eligible foster child, brother, sister, half If NO: This person isnt your qualifying child. Go to Table
brother, half sister, stepbrother, stepsister, 2: Dependency Exemption for Qualifying Relative
or a descendant of any of them (i.e., your
grandchild, niece, or nephew)?
step Was the person: If YES: Go to Step 7
6 -under age 19 at the end of the year and If NO: This person isnt your qualifying child. Go to Table
younger than you (or your spouse, if filing 2: Dependency Exemption for Qualifying Relative
jointly) OR
-under age 24 at the end of the year, a full-
time student (see definition on page C-1) and
younger than you (or your spouse, if filing
jointly) OR
-any age if permanently and totally disabled1 at
any time during the year?
step Did the person live with you as a member If YES: Go to Step 8 (Use Table 3 to see if the exemption
7 of your household, except for temporary for children of divorced or separated parents or parents
absences2, for more than half the year? who live apart applies.)
(Answer YES if the child was born or died If NO: This person isnt your qualifying child. Go to Table
during the year.) 2: Dependency Exemption for Qualifying Relative
step Did the person provide more than half of his or If YES: You cant claim this person as a dependent
8 her own support3 for the year? If NO: Go to Step 9
step Is the person a qualifying child of any other If YES: Go to the chart: Qualifying Child of More Than
9 taxpayer? One Person
If NO: You can claim this person as a dependent
Footnotes:
1
A person is permanently and totally disabled if he or she cant See Table 3: Children of Divorced or Separated Parents or
engage in any substantial gainful activity because of a physical Parents Who Live Apart to see if an exception applies. There
or mental condition, AND a doctor determines the condition is an exception for kidnapped children. See Publication 17,
has lasted or can be expected to last continuously for at least a Personal Exemptions and Dependents
year or can lead to death. 3
2
A worksheet for determining support is included later in
A child is considered to have lived with you during periods this section. If a child receives social security benefits and
of time when one of you, or both, are temporarily absent due uses them toward his or her own support, those benefits are
to illness, education, business, vacation, military service, considered as provided by the child. Benefits provided by the
institutionalized care for a child who is permanently and totally state to a needy person (welfare, food stamps, housing, SSI)
disabled, or incarceration. In most cases a child of divorced or are generally considered support provided by the state.
separated parents is the qualifying child of the custodial parent.
C-5
Table 2: Dependency Exemption for
Qualifying Relative
You must start with Table 1. (To claim a qualifying relative dependent, you must first meet the
Dependent Taxpayer, Joint Return and Citizen or Resident Tests in steps 1-4 of Table 1)
step Is the person your qualifying child or the If YES, the person isnt a qualifying relative. (See
1 qualifying child of any other taxpayer? A child Qualifying Child Interview Tips.)
isnt the qualifying child of any other taxpayer If NO, go to Step 2.
if the childs parent (or any other person for
whom the child is defined as a qualifying child)
isnt required to file a U.S. income tax return or
files an income tax return only to get a refund
of income tax withheld.
step Was the person your son, daughter, stepchild, If NO, go to Step 3.
foster child, or a descendant of any of them If YES, go to Step 4.
2 (i.e., your grandchild)? OR
Was the person your brother, sister, half- Note: The relatives listed in Step 2 are considered
brother, half-sister, or a son or daughter of any Relatives who dont have to live with you
of them? OR Note: To enter into TaxSlayer a qualifying relative who did
Was the person your father, mother, or an not live with the taxpayer more than 6 months, choose
ancestor or sibling of either of them? OR Other reasons from the months dropdown menu.
Was the person your stepbrother, stepsister,
stepfather, stepmother, son-in-law, daughter-
in-law, father-in-law, mother-in-law, brother-in-
law, or sister-in-law?1
step Was the person any other person (other than If NO, you cant claim this person as a dependent.
your spouse) who lived with you all year as a If YES, go to Step 4.
3 member of your household?2 Note: There are exceptions for kidnapped children; a child
who was born or died during the year; certain temporary
absencesschool, vacation, medical care, etc. Divorced
or separated spouse. If you obtained a final decree of
divorce or separate maintenance during the year, you cant
take your former spouses exemption. This rule applies
even if you provided all of your former spouses support.
step Did the person have gross income of less If NO, you cant claim this person as a dependent.
4 than $4,050 in 2017?3 If YES, go to Step 5.
step Did you provide more than half the persons If YES, you can claim this person as your qualifying
5 total support for the year?4 relative dependent. (Use Table 3 to see if the exception for
children of divorced or separated parents or parents who
live apart applies.)
continued on next page
C-6
Table 2: Dependency Exemption for
Qualifying Relative
Continued
step Did another person provide more than half the If YES, you cant claim an exemption for this person.
persons total support? If NO, go to Step 7.
6
step Did two or more people together provide more If YES, go to Step 8.
than half the persons total support? If NO, you cant claim this person as a dependent.
7
step Did you provide more than 10% of the persons If YES, go to Step 9.
total support for the year? If NO, you cant claim this person as a dependent.
8
Did the other person(s) providing more than If YES, you can claim this person as a dependent. You
step
10% of the persons total support for the year must file Form 2120 with your return.
9 provide you with a signed statement agreeing If NO, you cant claim this person as a dependent.
not to claim the exemption?
4
Footnotes: A worksheet for determining support is included at the
1
Any of these relationships that were established by end of this section.
marriage arent ended by death or divorce. See Table 3 for the exception to the support test for children
2
A person doesnt meet this test if at any time during the of divorced or separated parents or parents who live apart.
year the relationship between you and that person violates If a child receives social security benefits and uses
local law. them toward his or her own support, those benefits are
3
For purposes of this test, the gross income of an individual considered as provided by the child. Benefits provided
who is permanently and totally disabled at any time during by the state to a needy person are generally considered
the year doesnt include income for services the individual support provided by the state. A proposed rule on which
performs at a sheltered workshop. taxpayers may choose rely treats governmental payments
Gross income means all income the person received in made to a recipient that the recipient uses, in part, to
the form of money, goods, property and services, that isnt support others as support of the others provided by the
exempt from tax. Dont include social security benefits recipient, whereas any part of such payment used for the
unless the person is married filing a separate return and support of the recipient would constitute support of the
lived with their spouse at any time during the tax year or recipient by a third party. For example, if a mother receives
if 1/2 the social security benefits plus their other gross TANF and uses the TANF payments to support her children,
income and tax exempt interest is more than $25,000 the proposed regulations treat the mother as having
($32,000 if MFJ). provided that support.
C-7
Table 3: Children of Divorced or Separated
Parents or Parents Who Live Apart
(Use this table when directed from Table 1 or Table 2 to determine if the exception applies to the
qualifying child residency test or the qualifying relative support test)
step Did the child receive over half of his or her support from the parents If YES, go to Step 2.
1 who are: If NO, Table 3 doesnt apply.
Divorced OR
Legally separated under a decree of divorce or
separate maintenance OR
Separated under a written separation agreement OR
Lived apart at all times during the last 6 months of the year?
step Was the child in the custody of one or both parents for more than half If YES, go to Step 3.
2 the year?1 If NO, Table 3 doesnt apply.
step Did the custodial parent (parent with whom the child lived for the greater If YES, the Table 3 exception
3 number of nights during the year) provide the taxpayer a signed written applies.2 Return to the
declaration (Form 8332, a copy of Form 8332, or similar document) appropriate step in Table 1 or
releasing his or her claim to the exemption for the child? Table 2.
step Are either of the following statements true? If YES, the Table 3 exception
4 The taxpayer has a Post-1984 and Pre-2009 decree3 or agreement applies. Return to the appropriate
that is applicable for the current tax year and states all three of the step in Table 1 or Table 2.
following? If NO, Table 3 doesnt apply.
1. The noncustodial parent can claim the child as a dependent without
regard to any condition, such as payment of support.
2. The other parent wont claim the child as a dependent for the year.
3. The years for which the noncustodial parent can claim the child as a
dependent.
OR
The taxpayer has a Pre-1985 decree of divorce or separation
maintenance or written separation agreement between the parents
that provide that the noncustodial parent can claim the child as a
dependent, and the noncustodial parent provides at least $600 for
support of the child during the current tax year?
Footnotes:
1
If the child is emancipated under state law, either by reaching age of majority or other means, child is treated as not living with either
parent (see Pub 17).
2
Post-2008 decree or agreement. If the divorce decree or separation agreement went into effect after 2008, the noncustodial parent
cant attach pages from the decree or agreement instead of Form 8332. The custodial parent must sign, and the noncustodial parent
must attach to his or her return, either Form 8332, or a copy of Form 8332 or a substantially similar statement the only purpose of which
is to release the custodial parents claim to a child. For an e-filed return, attach and submit the Form 8332 with Form 8453, U.S. Individual
Income Tax Transmittal for an IRS e-file Return.
3
Post-1984 and Pre-2009 divorce decrees or agreements:
The noncustodial parent must attach all of the following pages from the decree or agreement.
-Cover page (include the other parents SSN on that page)
-The pages that include all the information identified in (1) through (3) above
-Signature page with the other parents signature and date of agreement.
Release of exemption revoked
A custodial parent who has revoked his or her previous release of a claim to exemption for a child must attach a copy of the revocation
to his or her return. For the revocation to be effective for current tax year, the custodial parent must have given (or made reasonable
efforts to give) written notice of the revocation to the noncustodial parent in the prior tax year or earlier. (See Form 8332 for more
details)
Other decrees or agreements that dont meet step 4: Non-custodial parents must attach the Form 8332, or a copy of Form 8332 or
similar statement to their return.
C-8
Worksheet for Determining Support
Funds Belonging to the Person You Supported
1. Enter the total funds belonging to the person you supported, including income received (taxable
and nontaxable) and amounts borrowed during the year, plus the amount in savings and other
accounts at the beginning of the year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.
2. Enter the amount on line 1 that was used for the persons support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.
3. Enter the amount on line 1 that was used for other purposes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.
4. Enter the total amount in the persons savings and other accounts at the end of the year . . . . . . 4.
5. Add lines 2 through 4. (This amount should equal line 1.) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.
Expenses for Entire Household (where the person you supported lived)
6. Lodging (complete line 6a or 6b):
6a. Enter the total rent paid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6a.
6b. Enter the fair rental value of the home. If the person you supported owned the home,
also include this amount in line 21. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6b.
7. Enter the total food expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7.
8. Enter the total amount of utilities (heat, light, water, etc. not included in line 6a or 6b) . . . . . . . . . 8.
9. Enter the total amount of repairs (not included in line 6a or 6b) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9.
10. Enter the total of other expenses. Don't include expenses of maintaining the home, such as
mortgage interest, real estate taxes, and insurance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10.
11. Add lines 6a through 10. These are the total household expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11.
12. Enter total number of persons who lived in the household . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12.
Expenses for the Person You Supported

13. Divide line 11 by line 12. This is the persons share of the household expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13.
14. Enter the persons total clothing expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14.
15. Enter the persons total education expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15.
16. Enter the persons total medical and dental expenses not paid for or reimbursed by insurance . . 16.
17. Enter the persons total travel and recreation expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17.
18. Enter the total of the persons other expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18.
19. Add lines 13 through 18. This is the total cost of the persons support for the year . . . . . . . . . . . 19.
Did the Person Provide More Than Half of His or Her Own Support?
20. Multiply line 19 by 50% (.50) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20.
21. Enter the amount from line 2, plus the amount from line 6b if the person you supported owned
the home. This is the amount the person provided for his or her own support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.
22. Is line 21 more than line 20?
No. You meet the support test for this person to be your qualifying child. If this person also meets the other tests to be a
qualifying child, stop here; don't complete lines 23 26. Otherwise, go to line 23 and fill out the rest of the worksheet to
determine if this person is your qualifying relative.
Yes. You don't meet the support test for this person to be either your qualifying child or your qualifying relative. Stop
here.
Did You Provide More Than Half?

23. Enter the amount others provided for the persons support. Include amounts provided by state,
local, and other welfare societies or agencies. Don't include any amounts included on line 1. . . 23.
24. Add lines 21 and 23 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24.
25. Subtract line 24 from line 19. This is the amount you provided for the persons support . . . . . . . . 25.
26. Is line 25 more than line 20?
Yes. You meet the support test for this person to be your qualifying relative.
No. You don't meet the support test for this person to be your qualifying relative. You can't claim an exemption for
this person unless you can do so under a multiple support agreement, the support test for children of divorced or
separated parents, or the special rule for kidnapped children. See Multiple Support Agreement, Support Test for Children
of Divorced or Separated Parents or Parents Who Live Apart, or Kidnapped Child under Qualifying Relative.
Note: Taxpayers should keep a completed copy of this worksheet for their records.
The following items arent included in total support:
Federal, state, and local income taxes paid by persons from their own income
Social security and Medicare taxes paid by persons from their own income
Life insurance premiums
Funeral expenses
Scholarships received by your child if your child is a student
Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance payments used for the support of the child who receives them
C-9
Notes
C-10
D. Income
Income Quick Reference Guide
This list is a quick reference and volunteers should refer to Publication 17 for more information. Dont rely on this list alone. Some of
the income items on this chart are out of scope for VITA/TCE. Refer taxpayers with out of scope income to a professional tax preparer.
Confirm that all income received by the taxpayer has been discussed and shown on the return, if required.
Table A Examples of Taxable Income

(Examples of income to consider when determining whether a return must be filed or if a person meets the gross income
test for qualifying relative)
Wages, salaries, bonuses, commissions Military pension
Alimony Nonemployee compensation
Annuities Notary fees
Awards Partnership, Estate and S-Corporation income
Back pay (Schedule K-1s, Taxpayers share)
Breach of contract payment Pensions
Business income/Self-employment income Prizes
Cash income Punitive damage award
Compensation for personal services Railroad retirementTier I (portion may be taxable)
Debts forgiven1 Railroad retirementTier II
Directors fees Recovery of prior year deduction2 (medical,
Disability benefits (employer-funded) property taxes, etc.)
Discounts Refunds of State and local income tax (if
Dividends reportable)2
Employee awards Rents (gross rent)
Employee bonuses Rewards
Estate and trust income Royalties
Farm income Severance pay
Fees Self-employment (gross income)
Gains from sale of property or securities Social security benefits - portion may be taxable -
Gambling winnings (See Income tab, Railroad Retirement, Civil Service,
Hobby income and Social Security Benefits)
Interest Supplemental unemployment benefits
Interest on life insurance dividends Taxable scholarships and grants
IRA distributions Tips and gratuities
Jury duty fees Tribal per capita payments
Military pay (not exempt from taxation) Unemployment compensation
Table B Examples of Nontaxable Income
(Examples of income items to exclude when determining whether a return must be filed)
Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC) Payments to the beneficiary of a deceased employee
Child support Payments in lieu of workers compensation
Civil damages, restitution or other monetary award paid to Qualified Medicaid waiver payments
someone because that person was wrongfully incarcerated Relocation payments
Damages for physical injury (other than punitive) Rebate/Patronage Dividends issued by co-ops for
Death payments personal use are not taxable.
Dividends on life insurance Rental less than 15 days5
Federal Employees Compensation Act payments Rental allowance of clergyman
Federal income tax refunds Reverse mortgages
Gifts Sickness and injury payments
Inheritance3 or bequest Social security benefits - portion may not be taxable
Insurance proceeds (Accident, Casualty, Health, Life) (See Income tab, Railroad Retirement, Civil Service, and
Interest on tax-free securities Social Security Benefits)
Interest on EE/I bonds redeemed for qualified Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
higher education expenses Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
Meals and lodging for the convenience of employer Veterans benefits
Olympic and Paralympic Games medals and prizes4 Welfare payments (including TANF) and food stamps
Workers compensation and similar payments
Footnotes: 1
If the taxpayer received a Form 1099-C, Cancellation of Debt, in relation to their main home, it can be nontaxable
2
If itemized in year paid and taxes were reduced because of deduction
3
An inheritance isnt reported on the income tax return, but a distribution from an inherited pension or annuity is subject to the same tax as the original owner would have
had to pay.
4
The exclusion does not apply to a taxpayer for any year in which the taxpayers AGI exceeds $1 million (or $500,000 for an individual filing a MFS return).
5
If you use a dwelling unit as a home and you rent it less than 15 days during the year, you are not required to report the rental income and rental expenses from this
activity. See Publication 527 (Military Certification only)
D-1
TIP Armed Armed Forces
Forces Gross Gross
Income Income
Members of the Armed Forces receive many different types of pay and allowances. Some are included in gross income
while others
Members are Armed
of the excluded from receive
Forces gross income. Table 1 types
many different lists included items
of pay and that are subject
allowances. Some toaretax and must
included be reported
in gross incomeon
your tax return. Table 2 lists excluded items that are not subject to tax, but may have to be shown on your tax return.
while others are excluded from gross income. Table 1 lists included items that are subject to tax and must be reported on
your tax return. Table 2 lists excluded items that are not subject to tax, but may have to be shown on your tax return.
Table 1Included Items
These
Tableitems are included
1Included in gross income, unless the pay is for service in a combat zone
Items
These items are included in gross income, unless the pay isHostile
for service in a combat zone
Basic Active duty Special fire or Incentive Submarine
pay Attendance at a designated pay imminent danger pay Flight
service school (cont.) Medical and dental officers Hazardous duty
Back wages Nuclear-qualified officers High altitude/Low altitude
CONUS COLA Optometry (HALO)
Drills Other Health Professional
Other Accrued leave
Reserve training Special Pay (for example, nurse,
pay High deployment per diem
Training Duty physician assistant, social work,
Personal money allowances
etc.)
Special Aviation career incentives paid to high ranking officers
Pharmacy
pay Career sea Student loan repayment
Special compensation for
Diving duty from programs such as the
assistance with activities
Foreign duty Department of Defense
of daily living (SCAADL)
(outside the 48 Educational Loan Repayment
Special duty assignment pay
contiguous states Program when years service
Veterinarian
and the District of Columbia) (requirement) isnt attributable
Voluntary Separation Incentive
Foreign language proficiency to a combat zone
Hardship duty Bonus Career status In-kind Personal use of government-
pay Continuation pay military provided vehicle
Enlistment benefits
Officer
Overseas extension
Reenlistment
Table 2Excluded Items

Table
The 2Excluded
exclusion for certain Items
items applies whether the item is furnished in-kind or is a reimbursement or allowance. There is no
The exclusion
exclusion forpersonal
for the certain items applies
use of whether the item is
a government-provided furnished in kind or is a reimbursement or allowance. There is no
vehicle.
exclusion for the personal use of a government-provided vehicle.
Combat Compensation for active Family Certain educational Travel Annual round trip for
zone pay service while in a combat allowances expenses for dependents allowances dependent students
zone Emergencies Leave between
Note: Limited amount for Evacuation to a place of consecutive overseas
officers safety tours
Separation Reassignment in a
Other pay Defense counsel services dependent
Living BAH (Basic Allowance for
Disability, including restricted status
allowances Housing)
payments received for Transportation for you
BAS (Basic Allowance for
injuries incurred as a or your dependents
Subsistence)
direct result of a terrorist during ship overhaul or
Housing and cost-of-living
or military action inactivation
allowances abroad paid by
Group-term life insurance Per diem
the U.S. Government or by
Professional education
a foreign government
ROTC educational and In-kind Dependent-care
OHA (Overseas Housing
subsistence allowances military assistance program
Allowance)
State bonus pay for benefits Legal assistance
service in a combat zone Moving Dislocation Medical/dental care
Survivor and retirement allowances Military base Commissary/exchange
protection plan premiums realignment and closure discounts
Uniform allowances benefit (the exclusion Space-available travel
Uniforms furnished to is limited as described on government aircraft
enlisted personnel above)
Move-in housing
Death Burial services Move household and
allowances Death gratuity payments personal items
to eligible survivors Moving trailers or mobile
Travel of dependents to homes
burial site Storage
Temporary lodging and
temporary lodging
expenses
D-2
How/Where to Enter Income
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Income
- Select Guide Me to launch a step-by-step series of questions to help determine the various types of income that should
be entered on the tax return.
- Select Enter Myself if you prefer to enter items of income without help.
- Regardless of which path you choose, the tax form entry screens are the same.
- If you dont need to enter or correct any income items, you can skip this section.
If the taxpayer received a state refund

in 2017 and itemized deductions
To go directly to a specific form, use for 2016 that included a deduction Select Quick File from this pull-down
the box to enter the form number or for state income tax, click this and menu to create a list of entry screens
name. See Tab O for entries. complete the State Refund worksheet. for this return.
You can go directly to the Income section from To enter Taxable Scholarship, To enter unemployment
the quick link. Prisoner Earned Income, or compensation, click Begin on the
Foreign Compensation - click unemployment line or click Line
Other Income then choose Other 19 from the 1040 view.
Compensation.
D-3
Form W-2 Instructions
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Income>Wages; 1040 View Line 7; or Keyword W2
If a Form W-2 cant be obtained from the employer,

check the box to indicate this is a substitute W-2.
TaxSlayer will generate a Form 4852, Substitute for
Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement.
If there is a code in W-2 box 9,

enter where indicated. This code
assists the IRS in validating the W-2
data submitted with the return.
Indicate if W-2 is for Taxpayer

or Spouse. The software will
not allow you to proceed until
this is completed.
If the taxpayer has an ITIN,

you will be prompted to enter
the ITIN or SSN as shown on
the original W-2.
Compare the taxpayers address to

Form W-2 address. If the address on
the W-2 is different, correct the W-2
address here to match the original
Form W-2. This wont change the tax
return address.
D-4
Form W-2 Instructions (continued)
Review box 2 and box 17 to

ensure tax withheld was entered
and is correct.
The entries in boxes 3, 4, 5, 6

and 16 will auto-populate based
on the Box 1 entry. If the figures
dont match taxpayers Form
W-2, correct the data so that it
matches the information on Form
W-2.
If there is an entry in Box 10,

Form 2441 must be completed.
Be sure to complete Box 11 if there is an entry

on the original Form W-2. An entry here may
indicate that the taxpayer is receiving deferred
compensation earned in a prior year.
Form W-2 ALERT!

IRS requires that information on electronically filed Form(s) W-2 match the printed Form(s) W-2 exactly if possible. For
example, the the name cannot be changed, and the software will not accept special characters.
A taxpayer with multiple Forms W-2 could possibly have a different address on several, if not all, of the Forms W-2.
Check them carefully; the change must be made on every Form W-2 that is different from the current address
Be sure to enter every item from the taxpayers original W-2 key what you see.
TIP on Tips: If the taxpayer earned tips that werent reported to the employer, enter in the Unreported Tips box. This
will add Form 4137 to the return. If the taxpayer received tips that werent reported to the employer because they were
less than $20 a month, go to other taxes, select Form 4137 and also enter the amount there. If a taxpayer wishes to
use their tip log instead of allocated tips in box 8, leave box 8 blank and report it as unreported tips within the W-2.
D-5
Form W-2 Instructions (continued)
For Box 12 and 14, choose the code from the drop-down
menu and enter the dollar amount. If there are more than 4 Be sure to check box 13 as indicated on
items in box 12, enter the items that impact the tax return Forms W-2. This is important in calculating the
(Code D, E, G, P, Q, T, W, AA, BB, EE). deductibility of IRA contributions.
Select from the

drop-down list
for box 14. If
the amount is
eligible for the
retirement savers
contributions
credit, select
Retirement (Not
in Box 12)- Carry
to Form 8880.
If Box 16 and
Box 17 are both
blank, leave Box
15 blank.
If the Form W-2 shows withholding from more than one state, click the Add State
button to add the additional information.
Form W-2 Reference Guide for Common Box 12 Codes

A Uncollected social security or RRTA tax on tips Q Nontaxable combat pay (Military certification)
B Uncollected Medicare tax on tips T Adoption benefits (Out of scope)
D Elective deferrals to a section 401 (k) cash or deferred W Employer contributions (including amounts the
arrangement employee contributes through a cafeteria plan) to
E Elective deferrals under a section 403 (b) salary employees health savings account (HSA certification)
reduction agreement AA Designated Roth contributions under a section 401
G Elective deferrals and employer contributions (k) plan
(including nonelective deferrals) to a section 457 (b) BB Designated Roth contributions under a section 403
deferred compensation plan (b) plan
J Nontaxable sick pay DD Cost of employer-sponsored health coverage
P Excludable moving expense reimbursements paid EE Designated Roth contributions under a governmental
directly to employee section 457 (b) plan
Codes D, E, and G indicate elective (voluntary)
contributions which qualify for Retirement Savings
Credit.
D-6
Interest Income
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Income>Interest and Dividends>Interest Income,
1040 View Line 8a, or Keyword 1099-INT
If U.S. Savings Bond interest is

used to pay for higher education
expenses, return is out of scope.
If the aggregate value of foreign

financial accounts exceeds $10,000
at any time during the year, the
FinCEN Report 114 is required and
the return is out of scope.
If Tax-Exempt interest is present

on the Form 1099-INT, enter
separately.
D-7
Interest Income (continued)
Annotating who received

Enter the name of payer. Dont use
interest is important for state tax
punctuation.
purposes.
Enter each Form 1099-INT

separately.
Enter the taxable interest paid in

box 1. This doesnt include interest
shown in box 3.
The early withdrawal penalty is

carried as an adjustment to Form
1040.
Enter any taxable amount from box

3 on the Interest on U.S. Savings
Bonds and Treasury obligations A warning may appear if tax
line. withheld is more than 40% of Box
1. If your entries are correct, ignore
If 1099-INT shows foreign tax paid, the warning.
enter it in box 6 if the taxpayer
is eligible to use the Simplified
Limitation Election. See Tab G for
details.
IMPORTANTEntries are
transferred directly when a state Nominee interestInterest
return is added. If state tax law transferred to another personout
treats the interest differently, of scope.
include the exempt interest
amount and select the state from
the drop down list.
Generally, interest on U.S. OID adjustment Dont use this
government obligations (such as for interest reported on Form 1099-
savings bonds, treasury bonds/ OID. This is only used when the
bills/notes) is taxable on the federal OID instrument was bought or sold
return but isnt taxable on the state during the year. In that case, the
return. return is out of scope. OID interest
is treated the same as regular
interest.
Accrued interestInterest paid
to seller at time of purchaseout
of scope.
Private activity bond interest (PAB) is entered in Other Taxes>> Alternative Minimum Tax>>Interest from specified
private activity bonds exempt from the regular tax.
Note: If Form 1099-INT shows state tax withheld, go to the Payments and Estimates section and enter them there as
Other State Withholdings.
D-8
Tax-Exempt Interest
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Income>Interest and Dividends>Interest or Dividend
Income>Tax Exempt Interest; 1040 View Line 8b; or Keyword 1099-INT
Enter the payers name. Select whether

the interest income belongs to the
taxpayer, the spouse or if it is joint
income.
Enter the amount of tax exempt

interest from Box 8 of Form 1099-INT.
If any of the tax exempt interest isnt

exempt from state taxes, select the
Add/Edit button to add a Taxable State
Interest item.
Interest on out-of-state municipal
bonds isnt taxable on the federal
return BUT IS generally taxable on the
state return.
Enter the required information and

select Continue To Next Step.
Note: Interest on in-state municipal bonds is generally

NOT taxable on the federal and state returns.
Tip: Always enter tax-exempt interest or dividend income. This may affect the amount of Social Security income that is
taxable.
Note: Income from a reverse mortgage is not considered taxable income.
D-9
Seller Financed Mortgage Interest
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Income>Interest and Dividends>Seller Financed
Interest Income; 1040 View Line 8a; or Keyword 1099-INT
Caution: Must have identification

number of payer to e-file the return.
D-10
Dividend Income (Form 1099-DIV)
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Income>Interest and Dividends>Dividend Income; 1040
View Line 9a; or Keyword 1099-DIV
Enter each Form 1099-DIV

separately.
Enter the name of payer. Dont
use punctuation.
Select whether the dividend

income belongs to the taxpayer,
the spouse or if it is joint income.
Box 2a total capital gain

distributions from a regulated
investment company (mutual fund)
or real estate investment trust.
This entry flows to Schedule D.
Non-dividend distribution is a
return of basis, not taxed until all
cost is recovered. The taxpayer
must reduce their cost by these
distributions at the time of sale.
Once all costs are recovered,
report as capital gain.
An entry in Foreign tax paid (box

6) will flow to the foreign tax credit
line on Form 1040. Caution: Only
the simplified limitation method
is in scope. If total foreign taxes
exceed $300 ($600 if filing joint),
the simplified method cannot be
used. In that case, Form 1116
is required, with International
certification only. See the
Nonrefundable Credits tab for
Foreign Tax Credit information.
Enter dividends from federal bond

funds which are fully taxable on
the federal return but tax exempt
on the state return.
D-11
State and Local Refund Worksheet
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Income>State and Local Refunds; 1040 View Line
10; or Keyword 1099-G, Box 2
Caution: Use this worksheet only if the taxpayer itemized deductions last year claiming state income taxes as a
deduction and received a state or local income tax refund.
TIP: None of your refund is taxable if, in the year you paid the tax, you either (a) didnt itemize deductions, or (b) elected
to deduct state and local general sales taxes instead of state and local income taxes.
Enter prior year state and local income tax that was deducted and state and local sales tax that could have been
deducted.
Section 1 Use this worksheet to

determine the portion of the tax-
payers prior year state refund that
is considered taxable in the current
year. Use a copy of the taxpayers
6 6
previous year return to enter all
amounts in the spaces provided.
The taxable portion will be included
6
on the return as taxable income.
6 6
Section 2 For taxpayers who filed

a MFS tax return in the previous
year and were forced to itemize
deductions because their spouse
itemized deductions, enter the
amount from all current year Form
1099-G statements. This amount
will be included on the return as
taxable income.
Alimony Received--See Tab E for information about alimony income and deductions.
D-12
Schedule C Self-Employment Income
If any of the self-employment income is reported on Form 1099-MISC, Miscellaneous

Income, select Form 1099-Misc. In most cases, self-employment income reported on
a Form 1099- MISC will be in Box 7, Nonemployee compensation.
Select Profit or Loss From A Business (Schedule C) to enter self-employment

income that isnt reported on a Form 1099-MISC. This would include income reported
on Form 1099-K, Payment Card and Third Party Network Transactions, as well as all
other cash and any other income received related to the business activity. Also, enter
expenses related to the self-employment income.
Note: A taxpayer that received less than $600 in income from one payer may not receive a Form 1099-MISC or Form
1099-K. This income must still be reported.
D-13
Form 1099-MISC
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Income>Form 1099-Misc; Keyword MISC
On a joint return, indicate if the Form

1099-MISC recipient is the Taxpayer or
the Spouse.
The Payer Information relates to the

entity that paid the taxpayer and issued
the Form 1099-MISC. In most cases,
the Federal ID will be an employer
identification number, not an SSN.
D-14
Form 1099-MISC (continued)
Some income that isnt self-

employment, such as prizes
and awards, is reported in
box 3, Other income. This
income is reported on Form
1040, line 21.
Note: There is usually no

income tax withholding on a
Form 1099-MISC. But always
double check to make sure!
Sometimes income reported

in box 7, Nonemployee
compensation is related to a
hobby - an activity that isnt
engaged in for profit. Activities
not for profit are out of scope.
See Pub 525, Taxable and
Nontaxable Income, for more
complete information about
not-for-profit activities.
Self-employment income
generally appears in
box 7, Nonemployee
compensation. If there is
income reported in other
boxes and it was earned by
the business, it should also
be reported as other business
income on the Schedule C.
D-15
Form 1099-MISC (continued)
D-16
Connecting the Form 1099-Misc to Schedule C
If the Form 1099-MISC income is self-employment, create a Schedule

C by clicking here the Create a New Schedule C link.
Caution: If the Carried To section says None the Alert: Check to ensure the Form 1099-MISC is
income is not being reported on the return. Select carried to the correct section of Form 1040.
Edit and link to the appropriate Schedule.
D-17
Schedule C - Menu
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Income>Form 1099-Misc>Continue>; 1040 View
Line 12; Keyword C
Caution: Businesses with inventory, employees, contract labor, depreciation, business use of the home, expenses over
$25,000 or a net loss are out of scope.
Complete Basic Information Select Income to enter any

About your Business and income for the business that was
Questions About the Operation not reported on Form 1099- MISC,
of Your Business for every such as cash income or income
Schedule C. from a Form 1099-K.
Select Other expenses to enter Most business expenses are

any expenses not listed under entered in the General Expenses
General Expenses. section.
Income reported on Form 1099-K is in scope if received for self-employment income (such as shared-economy driving).
Make sure the total shown on the 1099-K is included, along with any cash income, on Schedule C income section.
Out of scope: A Form 1099-K received for the sale of goods held in inventory or for rental income (unless certified in
Military).
Caution: Income from the manufacture, distribution, or trafficking of controlled substances (such as marijuana) is out of
scope for the VITA/TCE programs.
D-18
Schedule C - Questions about your Business
To be in scope, the accounting method must be Cash and there can be

no inventory, no cost of goods sold, no employees, no business use of
the home, and no depreciation (completing Form 4562).
In most cases, the taxpayers

do materially participate in the
business. This means that the
taxpayer ran the business and did
the work.
If the taxpayer has a business loss

carried over from another tax year
or is required to file a Form 1099,
the tax return is out of scope.
D-19
Schedule C - General Expenses
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Income>Profit or Loss from a Business>General Expenses;
1040 View Line 12; Keyword C
The following expenses are out of scope:

Contract Labor, Depletion, Employee benefit program, Health Insurance, Mortgage interest, Pension and
profit sharing, and Wages.
To be deductible, a business expense must be both ordinary and necessary. An ordinary expense is one that is common
and accepted in your industry. A necessary expense is one that is helpful and appropriate for your trade or business. An
expense does not have to be indispensable to be considered necessary.
Note: Car and truck expenses arent entered on this page. Those expenses are entered on a separate page.
Note: Rentals or leases of equipment for more than 30 days are out of scope.
Caution: Expenses that arent deductible include bribes and kickbacks; charitable contributions; demolition expenses or
losses; and dues to business, social, athletic, luncheon, sporting, airline, and hotel clubs.
D-20
Schedule C - Car and Truck Expenses
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Income>Profit or Loss from a Business>Car and Truck
Expenses; 1040 View Line 12; Keyword C
Using actual expense deductions, such as gas,

repairs, and depreciation, is out of scope.
Enter a brief description of

the vehicle; for example,
2008 Ford.
Other: Miles driven for

personal purposes.
Business miles: Miles related to the Commuting miles: Miles driven each Note: The total of Business,
business activity that arent commuting day from home to the first business Commuting and Other miles
miles. location and driven from the last should add up to the total miles on
business location back home. the vehicle for the year.
Caution: Refer to Tab F, Deductible Transportation Expenses, for help determining deductible business mileage
and non-deductible commuting mileage. For additional information and examples, see Publication 463, Travel,
Entertainment, Gift, and Car Expenses.
Note: The car and truck expense deduction will automatically be calculated using the standard mileage rate, based on
the number of business miles entered. The rate is 53.5 cents per mile for tax year 2017. In addition, the taxpayer can
deduct the cost of parking and tolls.
Note: If you are self-employed and use your car in your business, you can deduct the business part of state and local
personal property taxes on motor vehicles on Schedule C. Enter this on the Taxes line on the Schedule C Expenses
screen. However, if you are self-employed and use your car in your business, you can deduct that part of the interest
expense that represents your business use of the car. You cannot deduct the part of the interest expense that repre-
sents your personal use of the car. Enter the deductible amount on the Other Interest line on the Schedule C Expenses
screen.
Note: If you are an employee, you cannot deduct any interest paid on a car loan. This applies even if you use the car
100% for business as an employee.
D-21
Schedule D Capital Gains
Enter all capital transactions here.

The software will carry the transactions to
the appropriate Form 8949. The totals for
each Form 8949 will automatically carry to
the correct line of Sch D.
2016
2016
If the taxpayer has a Short Term or

Long Term capital loss carryover from
the prior year, enter on the appropriate
lines.
D-22
Entering Capital Gains and Losses
If you check the box for

Alternate Option on for Date
Acquired or Date Sold, a
pick list will appear. Choose
the correction option for the
transaction. Short term = 1 year or less
Long term = more than 1 year
Form 1099-B box 1b
Form 1099-B box 1c
Form 1099-B box 1d
Choose the cost basis type that applies to this

transaction.
Code A or D
Code B or E
Code C or F
D-23
Entering Capital Gains and Losses (continued)
Form 1099-B box 1e or provided

by taxpayer. If basis cant
be determined, use zero. If
inherited from a 2010 death see
Adjustments to Basis Chart in this
tab.
If an adjustment to basis or net

capital gain is required, enter the
adjustment amount and mark the
reason(s) from the list. For most
transactions, no adjustment to
gain or loss is needed. You may
need to enter an adjustment if
the basis provided is incorrect,
another situation applies that
requires a change to the basis, or
if the taxpayer is able to exclude
some or all of the capital gain.
TIP: If summarizing transactions,

enter zero for the adjustment
amount and select M - Reporting
Multiple Transactions on a Single
Row.
If you have no more transactions

to enter, click Continue (this will
also save your entry.)
Click Save & Enter Another if you have

more capital gain transactions to enter.
D-24
Entering Capital Gains and Losses (continued)
Exception to Entering Each Transaction on a Separate Row
When a taxpayers Form 1099-B includes so many transactions that it isnt practical to enter each one into TaxSlayer,
use the following procedure.
1. Divide the transactions into four categories:
Short term transactions with basis reported to the IRS - categorized as Box A.
Short term transactions with basis not reported to the IRS - categorized as Box B.
Long term transactions with basis reported to the IRS - categorized as Box D.
Long term transactions with basis not reported to the IRS - categorized as Box E.
2. Enter the total of each category on the capital gain entry screen.
3. If any of the transactions requires an adjustment to the reported basis, select the reason from the drop down box that
includes that transaction.
4. If there are transactions with basis not reported to the IRS, the brokers list of transactions must be submitted as an
attachment to the tax return. Submit the document using either of the following two methods:
Hardcopy: Make a photocopy and attach it to Form 8453 to be mailed to Austin, Texas.
Electronic: Scan the pages and save as a pdf. Attach the pdf to the electronic return prior to creating the e-file.
Brokers Statements
Look for all the following items. (You may or may not find them all.)
1. 1099-INT. (Summary-NOT detail)
2. 1099-DIV. (Summary-NOT detail)
3. 1099-B (Summary and Detail) and Cost basis or Transaction detail for sale of stock: Input as a capital gain and
losses.
4. Management or Investment fees: Input on Schedule A Line 23.
5. If there are dividends from mutual funds, look for an insert or chart that says what percentage came from federal
government interest: Enter on the dividend input screen and select your state (check your state rules).
6. The chart should also show what percent came from municipal bonds from each state: Input exempt interest from
states other than yours by selecting tax exempt interest income and making the state adjustment (check your state
rules).
7. Foreign taxes paid: Enter Foreign taxes paid on the dividend input screen only if all foreign taxes relate to passive
income and the total on all tax statements (1099, etc.) is less than $300 ($600 MFJ); otherwise, in scope only if
certified in International.
8. If the taxpayer has margin interest and is itemizing deductions, the return is out of scope.
Note: Net losses greater than $3000 ($1500 if MFS) will carry forward to future tax years.
D-25
Adjustments to Basis in TaxSlayerTY2017
Enter Capital Gain/Loss Transactions in TaxSlayer
For most transactions, you do not need to adjust the basis. You may need to adjust the basis if you received a Form 1099-
B or 1099-S (or substitute statement) that is incorrect, if you are excluding or postponing a capital gain, if you have a
disallowed loss, or in certain other situations. Details are in the table below.
In Scope
Adjustment Code
THEN select from the
IF THEN that will appear on
dropdown list
Form 8949
You received a Form 1099-B If the basis was not reported to the Form 1099-B with
(or substitute statement) and IRS, report the correct basis and Basis in Box 3 is
the basis shown in box 3 is make no adjustment. If the basis Incorrect & Correct B
incorrect was reported to the IRS Basis is Lower or
Higher
You received a Form 1099-B or Enter the proceeds as reported in Form 1099-B with
1099-S (or substitute statement) Box 1d. Enter as an adjustment Basis in Box 3 is
and there are selling expenses using a minus sign for any selling Incorrect & Correct
Basis is Lower or E
that are not reflected on the form expenses that you paid (and that
or schedule are not reflected on the form or Higher
statement you received).
You sold or exchanged your Report the sale or exchange as Exclude Some/All of
main home at a gain, must you would if were not taking the the Gain from the Sale
report the sale or exchange and exclusion. Then enter the amount of Your Main Home H
can exclude some or all of the of excluded (nontaxable) gain as a
gain negative number.
You have a nondeductible loss Report the sale or exchange Nondeductible loss
other than a loss indicated by and enter the amount of the other than a Wash Sale
code W nondeductible loss as an
L
adjustment. See Nondeductible
Losses in the Instructions for
Schedule D.
You report multiple transactions Enter -0- as the adjustment amount Reporting Multiple
on a single row as described unless an adjustment is required Transactions on a
in Exception to Reporting each because of another code. Single Row M
Transaction on a Separate
Row
You received a Form 1099-B (or Enter transaction with correct Form 1099-B and Type
substitute statement) and the term (long or short). Enter -0- as of Gain/Loss indicated
type of gain or loss (short term the adjustment amount unless an in Box 2 is incorrect T
or long term) shown in box 1c is adjustment is required because of
incorrect) another code.
You have a nondeductible loss Report the sale or exchange
from a wash sale and enter the amount of the Nondeductible loss
from a Wash Sale W
nondeductible loss as an
adjustment.
You have an adjustment Report the appropriate Other adjustment
not explained earlier in this adjustment amount. O
column
D-26
Adjustments to Basis in TaxSlayerTY2017
(continued)
OUT OF SCOPE
Adjustment Code
IF
You received a Form 1099-B or 1099-S (or substitute statement) as a nominee for the N
actual owner of the property.
You sold or exchanged qualified small business stock and can exclude part of the gain. Q
You can exclude all or part of your gain under the rules explained in the Schedule D X
instructions for DC Zone assets or qualified community assets.
You are electing to postpone all or part of your gain under the rules explained in the
Schedule D instructions for any rollover of gain (for example, rollover of gain from QSB R
stock or publicly traded securities).
You had a loss from the sale, exchange, or worthlessness of small business (section
1244) stock and the total loss is more than the maximum amount that can be treated as S
an ordinary loss.
You disposed of collectibles (see the Schedule D instructions). C
D-27
Capital Gains or Losses Sale of Main Home
Report the sale or exchange of your main home as a Capital Gain or Loss if:
You cant exclude all of your gain from income, or
You received a Form 1099-S for the sale or exchange.
Generally, if you meet the following two tests, you can exclude up to $250,000 of gain. If both you and your spouse meet
these tests and you file a joint return, you can exclude up to $500,000 of gain (but only one spouse needs to meet the
ownership requirement in Test 1).
Test 1. During the 5-year period ending on the date you sold or exchanged your home, you owned it for 2 years or more
(the ownership requirement) and lived in it as your main home for 2 years or more (the use requirement).
Note: Military members may be able to suspend the 5-year period while serving on qualified official extended duty.
Test 2. You havent excluded gain on the sale or exchange of another main home during the 2-year period ending on
the date of the sale or exchange of your home.
If you have a gain that cant be excluded, it is taxable.
Death of spouse. If you sell your home after your spouse dies (within 2 years after your spouse dies), and you have
not remarried as of the sale date, you can count any time when your spouse owned the home as time you owned it, and
any time when the home was your spouses residence as time when it was your residence.
If you are required to report the sale AND

IT RESULTS IN A GAIN:
Enter the purchase date, sale date,

purchase price, and sales price in the
Sale of Home Worksheet (you will enter
improvement and other adjustments to
basis on the next screen).
D-28
(continued)
Enter the number of days the Enter the number of days the
dwelling was used as the main taxpayer owned the home
home (separate entry for spouse). (separate entry for spouse).
If the taxpayer received the 2008 If the Use test and Ownership Click continue
First Time Homebuyers Credit, tests were met and the taxpayer is
check the box Form 5405 will be eligible for the Maximum Exclusion,
required to determine how much of check the box (reduced maximum
the credit must be repaid. exclusion is out of scope refer to a
professional).
If no 1099-S was received, and any

gain can be excluded, you dont have
to report the Sale of Main Home.
If the sale must be reported and
results in a gain, it will be listed on the
appropriate F8949 (basis type C or F.)
The gain will be included with the other
capital gains and losses on Schedule D.
Enter the fees from the purchase of
the home that werent included in the
purchase price already entered.
D-29
(continued)
Enter the selling expenses, cost of
improvements and other increases or
decreases to the basis of the home.
This will calculate the adjusted basis
of the home, which will be shown on
Form 8949.
The information will carry to Form
8949 and Schedule D.
If youve checked the box to exclude
the entire gain, Form 8949 will show
the adjustment as a negative number
in the amount of the net gain, with
adjustment code H and basis type F
and no net gain/loss.
If the sale resulted in a gain but wasnt eligible

for the exclusion, it will be reported on the
appropriate Form 8949 as a gain.
17
D-30
(continued)
If the sale is a loss but must be reported because Form 1099-S was received:
Loss on the sale of a main home cant be deducted; TO REPORT THE SALE, YOU MUST ENTER THE SALE AS
A CAPITAL GAIN OR LOSS ITEM:
You can use the Sale of Main Home worksheet to assist you in determining the basis, but the information
will NOT carry to Form 8949
Add a new Capital Gain or Loss Item
Enter the dates, sales price and basis amount
The basis type will be Did not receive Form 1099-B
Enter an adjustment in the amount of the loss as a positive number
D-31
(continued)
Select the adjustment reason as

nondeductible loss other than a wash
sale which will show as adjustment
code L.
D-32
IRA/Pension Distributions
(Form 1099-R, Form SSA-1099)
There are four items to choose from, and within each item you can make entries for as many documents as needed.
D-33
Form 1099-R
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Income>IRA/Pension Distributions>Add or Edit a
1099-R; 1040 View Line 15a, 15b, 16a or 16b; or Keyword 1099-R
Caution: Box 2a will automatically fill in with the amount in Box 1. If a different
amount is shown on the document, enter that amount directly. If the taxable amount
is not determined, Box 2b will be marked, and Box 2a may be blank, zero or the
same as Box 1. In that case, you may need to use the Simplified Method. Make
sure Box 2a reflects any changes due to simplified method, PSO health insurance,
rollovers, return of capital etc.
If a joint return, choose who the

document belongs to.
EIN must be entered

accurately. Incorrect EIN is a
common e-file reject.
If Simplified Method is required or if Box 2b offers Taxable amount not If Box 4 has an entry, ensure that the tax
the taxpayer has public safety officer determined and Total distribution. Mark withheld is entered and is correct.
health insurance deduction, click here for exactly as shown on document.
Worksheet.
D-34
Form 1099-R (continued)
Box 5 on the document may be current years amount of employee contributions or insurance premiums.
If Box 5 is the same as Box 1, none of the distribution is taxable. If the payer has calculated the taxable
amount of the pension in Box 2, generally the difference between Boxes 1 and 2 will appear in Box
5. If Box 5 is the amount of health insurance premiums, (typically only on a CSA 1099-R) you must
MANUALLY carry the amount to the Schedule A, Itemized Deductions.
Box 7 is a required entry enter exactly Box 9b shows the total employee
as shown on document. If IRA/SEP/ contributions and may be needed if
Simple is marked, check to enter exactly Box 2 has no entry usually requires
as on document. See Distribution Codes Worksheet (see Box 2a).
Chart in this tab.
D-35
Taxable Amount Not Determined
(Special Circumstances)
1099-R>Calculate taxable amount; 1040 View Line 15a, 15b, 16a or 16b; or Keyword 1099-R
For the simplified general rule worksheet, click here.

If the taxpayer has both retired public safety officer (PSO)
health insurance exclusion and simplified method features,
select the simplified general rule worksheet.
If the retired PSO does not need

a simplified method calculation,
select the PSO Distribution.
Enter the amount of PSO health Distributions Used To Pay Insurance Premiums for
insurance premiums paid from Public Safety Officers
the pension (up to $3,000). If you are an eligible retired public safety officer (police/law
Deduct any amount of premiums enforcement officer, firefighter, chaplain, or member of a rescue
paid in excess of $3,000 as an squad or ambulance crew), you can elect to exclude from income
Itemized Deduction.
distributions made from an eligible retirement plan that are
used to pay the premiums for accident or health insurance or
long-term care insurance. The premiums can be for coverage
for you, your spouse, or dependents. The distribution must be
made directly from the plan to the insurance provider. You can
exclude from income the smaller of the amount of the insurance
premiums or $3,000. You can only make this election for amounts
that would otherwise be included in your income. The amount
excluded from your income cant be used to claim a medical
expense deduction.
D-36
Form 1099-R Simplified Method
1099-R>Calculate taxable amount; 1040 View Line 15a, 15b, 16a or 16b; or Keyword 1099-R
If the taxpayer made after-tax contributions toward a pension, a portion of the annuity payment has already been taxed
and isnt taxable now. Generally, if the starting date of the payments was prior to July 2, 1986, the Simplified Method
wouldnt apply. If the taxpayer used the 3-year rule, the annuity is fully taxable. If he used the general rule, refer the
taxpayer to a professional tax preparer.
Since 1986, the employees total after tax contribution is distributed over a number of months that represents the average
life expectancy of someone who is this age (when they began receiving payments).
Enter the Plan cost

(shown in Box 9b of
1099-R).
Enter the age of the

taxpayer on the date the
pension started this
may be different than the
taxpayers age at the end
of that year.
For a joint or survivor

annuity, add the ages of
both spouses on the start
date. For the beneficiary
of an employee who died,
see Publication 575,
Pensions and Annuities.
The taxable amount is

calculated and carried to
box 2a on Form 1099-R.
Enter the amount that could have been recovered tax free in prior
years even if not claimed. Look at last years tax return to find this
amount, or calculate the amount using the monthly tax free amount
computed by TaxSlayer for the 2017 tax year times the number of
months prior to 2017. For annuitants who retired between July 2,
1986 and Dec. 31, 1986, enter zero.
Form CSA 1099-R --Civil Service Retirement Benefits -The Office of Personnel Management issues Form CSA
1099-R for annuities paid or Form CSF 1099-R for survivor annuities paid. The CSA-Form 1099-R box numbers reflect
the standard numbering on a Form 1099-R. If the taxable amount isnt calculated in box 2 the Simplified Method must
be used.
D-37
Form 1099-R Simplified Method (continued)
To save time for next years preparer, enter a Note

with the taxpayers annuity start date, age at the
start date, and amounts previously recovered.
D-38
Form 1099-R Rollovers and Disability Under
Minimum Retirement Age
If any portion was rolled over, check to bring up screen to enter the amount. Even if Box 7 is
Code G, this entry must be made.
Check if Code 3 is in box 7 and the taxpayer is disabled and under the minimum retirement age*
of the employers plan. This will put this disability income as wages on Line 7 of Form 1040,
instead of Line 16. It will be considered earned income in the calculation of some credits.
*Minimum retirement age generally is the age at which you can first receive a pension or annuity if you arent disabled.
Rollovers
A taxpayer should not receive a Form 1099-R for a trustee-to-trustee transfer from one IRA to another, but should
receive a Form 1099-R for a trustee-to-trustee direct rollover from an employer qualified plan to an IRA with code G.
A rollover that involves a distribution of funds to the participant isnt taxable if the funds are deposited into an IRA (or
the same IRA) or an employer plan within 60 days. Form 1099-R will have either a code 1 or code 7.
A participant is allowed only one rollover from an IRA to another (or the same) IRA in any 12-month period, regardless
of the number of IRAs owned. However, you can continue to make unlimited trustee-to-trustee transfers between IRAs
because it is not considered a rollover.
Sometimes a distribution includes both a regular distribution (generally taxable) and a rollover (generally non-taxable).
The Form 1099-R Rollover or Disability section is used to input the amount that wont be taxed.
If taxpayer inadvertently missed the 60-day rollover deadline for one of several reasons, he can submit a certification
to the trustee, and the amount can be considered a rollover on his tax return. See Revenue Procedure 2016-47 for
details.
Note: The above applies to pre-tax accounts (e.g. traditional IRAs) and to post-tax accounts (e.g. Roth IRAs) within each
group. If rolling or converting from pre-tax to post-tax, the amount will generally be taxable.
D-39
Form 1099-R Roth IRA
Basis of distributed property. The basis of property distributed from a Roth IRA is its fair market value (FMV) on the
date of distribution, whether or not the distribution is a qualified distribution.
You dont include in your gross income qualified distributions or distributions that are a return of your regular contributions
from your Roth IRA(s).
Distributions from a Roth IRA are tax free and may be excluded from income if the following requirements are met:
The distribution is made after the 5-year period beginning with the first day of the first taxable year for which a
contribution was made to a Roth IRA set up for the taxpayers benefit, and
The distribution is:
- Made on or after age 59, or
- Made because the taxpayer was disabled, or
- Made to a beneficiary or to an estate, or
- To pay certain qualified first-time homebuyer amounts (up to a $10,000 lifetime limit)
Figure 2-1. Is the Distribution From Your Roth IRA a Qualified Distribution?
Start Here
Has it been at least 5 years from the beginning of the year for No
which you first set up and contributed to a Roth IRA?
Yes
Yes
Were you at least 59 years old at the time of the distribution?
No
See the lists Roth IRA

Is the distribution being used to buy or rebuild a first home as distribution codes that are in
Yes
explained in Publication 590, First Home under Early Distribu- scope and out of scope for the
tions in chapter 1? VITA/TCE programs.
No
Yes Is the distribution due to your being disabled (defined Publica-

tion 590, under Early Distributions in chapter 1)?
No
Was the distribution made to your beneficiary or your estate No

after your death?
Yes
The distribution from the Roth IRA isnt
a qualified distribution. The portion of the
distribution allocable to earnings may be
subject to tax and it may be subject to the
The distribution from the Roth IRA is a qualified distribution. It 10% additional tax. This return is out of
isnt subject to tax or penalty. This distribution is in scope. This scope. Refer taxpayer to a professional
will generally be designated by code Q on Form 1099-R. tax preparer.
D-40
Form 1099-R Box 7 Distribution Codes
Box 7 Distribution Codes Explanations
1 Early distribution, If this amount was rolled over within 60 days of the withdrawal andif the distribution was
no known from an IRA--no prior rollover was made in the same 12-month period, enter the amount
exception. rolled over in Line 1 of the Exclusion Worksheet below the 1099-R screen. Trustee to
trustee transfer isnt considered a prior rollover. If more than one rollover from an IRA in the
12-month period, return is out of scope.
If this wasnt rolled over, a 10% additional tax will be applied unless the taxpayer qualifies
for an exception. See Tab H for a list of exceptions. If the taxpayer qualifies for an exception,
go to Form 5329, enter the amount that qualifies for an exception and select the reason for
the exception from the dropdown list.
2 Early distribution, Code 2 applies if the taxpayer is under 59 but the payer knows that an exception to the
exception applies. additional tax applies. If the IRA/SEP/SIMPLE box ISNT checked, no further action needed.
If the IRA/SEP/SIMPLE box IS checked, additional reporting may be required on Form 8606,
and the return is out of scope.
3 Disability. Code 3 is for a disability pension.
If the taxpayer is under the minimum retirement age for the company he retired from, then
check the box under Rollover or Disability that says, Check here to report on Line 7. This
will put this disability income on Line 7 of Form 1040 instead of Line 16. It will also include
the amount in earned income for calculation of the earned income credit, the dependent
care credit and the additional child tax credit.
If the taxpayer has reached the minimum retirement age, no further action is needed.
4 Death. Code 4 is for a survivors benefit or an inherited IRA. If its a pension, the original retiree has
died, and the survivor is receiving his or her share of the pension. If the original pensioner
was using the Simplified Method, continue to use it for the survivor. If its an inherited IRA and
the original owner had a basis, the survivor takes over that basis.
5 Prohibited This code is out of scope.
transaction.
6 Tax-free Section This code is out of scope.
1035 exchange.
7 Normal Code 7 is for normal distributions. It may occur in several different situations:
distribution. If the amounts in Box 1 and 2a are the same, and Box 2b isnt checked, the pension is fully
taxable.
If the taxpayer makes a rollover from one IRA to another and holds the money less than 60
days, enter the amount rolled over on the Exclusion Worksheet, line 1. This will check the
rollover box at Line 15 of Form 1040. Link out from there and enter a description of the
rollover.
If the Box 2b is checked and there is an amount in Box 9b, complete the Simplified Method.
Be sure to use the taxpayers age at the time of retirementnot current age.
If there is an amount in Box 2 that is different than Box 1, no further action is needed.
If there is no amount (or zero) in Box 2a, check to see if there is an amount in Box 5. If this
is the same amount as Box 1, the distribution is the taxpayers own money coming back.
Enter the Box 5 amount on line 5 of the Exclusion Worksheet. None of the distribution will
be taxed.
If any portion of this distribution was sent directly from the trustee to a charity, and the
taxpayer is over 70 1/2 years old, enter the net taxable amount in box 2a (which may
be zero). Hit Continue and at the IRA/Pensions Distributions page, select Nontaxable
Distributions and check the box to mark that there is a QCD. No charitable deduction may
be taken for the donation.
8 Excess This code is out of scope.
contributions
9 Cost of current life This code is out of scope
insurance
D-41
Form 1099-R Box 7 Distribution Codes (continued)
Box 7 Distribution Codes Explanations
A May be eligible for This code is out of scope.

10-year tax option.
B Designated Roth Code B is for a distribution from a designated Roth account. This code is in scope only if
account distribution taxable amount has been determined.
D Annuity payments from Code D is used for a distribution from a private annuity in conjunction with the regular code.
nonqualified annuities The distribution is subject to the net investment income tax. If the taxpayer has AGI over a
threshold amount ($200,000 for a single taxpayer or HoH, $250,000 MFJ or QW, $125,000
MFS), then this code means the return is out of scope. If the AGI is less than the threshold
amount the return is in scope and no further action is needed.
E Distributions under This code is out of scope.
Employee Plans
Compliance Resolution
System (EPCRS).
F Charitable gift Code F is used for the annuity payments from a charitable gift annuity. The difference between
annuity. the distribution in Box 1 and the capital gain shown in Box 3 will appear on Line 15 of the
1040. Schedule D must be completed to report the capital gain. Describe it as From 1099-R.
The gain should be the amount in Box 3, and the gain is long term.
G Direct rollover of Code G is for a direct rollover from a qualified plan to an eligible retirement plan. If box 2a,
distribution and direct taxable amount, is zero or blank, it wont be taxed. If there is an amount in box 2a, the direct
payment. rollover is fully or partially taxable. No further action is needed.
H Direct rollover of a Code H is for a direct rollover of a distribution from a designated Roth account to a Roth IRA.
designated Roth It wont be taxed. No further action is needed. Box 2a should be blank. Place check mark in
account distribution to box IRA/SEP/SIMPLE.
a Roth IRA.
J Early distribution from a This code is out of scope.
Roth IRA.
K Distribution of IRA This code is out of scope.
assets not having a
readily available FMV
L Loans treated as Code L is for loans treated as deemed distributions. This code could possibly be combined
deemed distributions with codes 1, 4, or B. For more information on how it is treated see the codes on this chart.
N Recharacterized This code is out of scope.
IRA contribution.
P Excess contributions This code is out of scope.
plus earnings/excess
deferrals
Q Qualified distribution This distribution isnt taxable. TaxSlayer enters the distribution amount on Form 1040 Line
from a Roth IRA. 15a but not 15b. No further action is needed.
R Recharacterized This code is out of scope.
IRA contribution.
S Early distribution from A 25% additional tax will be applied unless the taxpayer qualifies for an exception. See Tab H
a SIMPLE IRA in the for a list of exceptions. If the taxpayer qualifies for an exception, go to Form 5329 and enter
first 2 years, no known the amount of the distribution not subject to the additional tax and the code for the exception
exception. and the amount that qualifies for it.
T Roth IRA distribution, This code is out of scope.
exception applies.
U Dividends distributed This code is out of scope.
from an ESOP
W Charges or payments This code is out of scope.
for LTC contracts
D-42
Form 1099-R Nontaxable Income
Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) may be used if the person was at least 70.
This makes that portion of the distribution non-taxable. The taxpayer doesnt get a charitable
deduction of that amount, if itemizing.
Do not use this checkbox. See Tab D, Taxable Amount Not Determined. (Special Circumstances)
Qualified Health Savings Account funding distribution from an IRA (related to a Form 1099-R )
if rolled over, is out of scope.
D-43
Form RRB-1099-R Distributions
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Income>IRA/Pension Distributions>RRB-1099-R;
1040 View Line 15a, 15b, 16a or 16b; or Keyword RRB-1099-R
Railroad Retirement Benefits (RRB) are reported on two forms and require two entry screens. Social Security Equivalent Benefits,
Form RRB 1099 Tier 1 (Blue Form) are entered on the Social Security Benefits screen. Treat the benefits reported on this form just
like the information reported on Form SSA-1099. This screenshot shows the entry screen for Form RRB 1099-R Tier 2 (Green Form).
Taxable amount may have

to be determined using
Simplified Method.
D-44
Form SSA-1099 Distributions
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Income>IRA/Pension Distributions>Social Security
Benefits/RRB-1099; 1040 View Line 20; or Keyword 1099-SSA or RRB-1099
Enter amount from Box 5 of Form

SSA-1099 or from Form RRB-
1099 - Tier 1 (Blue form) Net
Social Security Equivalent Benefits
(SSEB).
Be sure to check for any tax

withheld. Often taxpayers choose
this option. This is found in box 6
of the SSA-1099 and box 10 of the
RRB-1099.
Enter the total of Medicare Parts A,

B, C, and D. Repeat for spouse.
If an amount is present in the

description of Box 3 on Form
SSA-1099, or boxes 7, 8 and 9
on Form RRB-1099, the taxpayer
received benefits attributable to a Note: Social Security repayment of $3,000 or less. If the amount you repaid was
prior year. If the taxpayer is able $3,000 or less, deduct it as a miscellaneous itemized deduction from your income in the
to provide prior year tax returns, year you repaid it. Enter it on Schedule A (Form 1040), line 23.
use the Social Security Lump-Sum Repayment over $3,000 is out of scope for the VITA/TCE programs.
Payment worksheet on the next
page to see if the taxable amount
of social security is reduced.
D-45
Form SSA-1099 Lump-Sum Distributions
Enter relevant year, as shown on

Form SSA-1099.
If more than one year has prior

year payments use additional
Lump-Sum worksheet.
Dropdown is available for prior year

Filing Status.
Choose proper answers for all boxes.

Leave the 3rd and/or 6th box empty if not
applicable. All other boxes require entries.
The calculation wont be correct without

the prior year AGI.
The software will determine total taxable

Social Security based on these entries.
Add to AGI any tax-exempt

interest and any adjustments
from Lines 33 to 35.
D-46
Entering K-1 Information in TaxSlayer
The taxpayers Schedule K-1

may come from a Form 1065
(partnership), Form 1120S (S-corp)
or Form 1041 (estate) Be careful to
choose the right form.
This situation would be out of scope.
D-47
Entering K-1 Information in TaxSlayer (continued)
Income from K-1 requires the

Advanced certification level.
Enter all items as indicated on the

taxpayers K-1.
Be sure to indicate whether the income

is attributable to taxpayer or spouse.
Most in-scope K-1s will be from a

Passive Entity, and the taxpayers
investment will be at risk. Be sure
to check these boxes if applicable
TaxSlayer may give you a warning if
the At-Risk box is left blank.
D-48
Entering K-1 Information in TaxSlayer (continued)
Income reported on Schedule K-1 that is within the scope of the VITA/TCE programs includes:
Interest income (flows to 1040, line 8a)

Dividend income (1040, line 9a)
Qualified Dividends income (1040, line 9b)
Net short-term capital gains and losses (Schedule D, line 5)
Net long-term capital gains and losses (Schedule D, line 12)
Tax-exempt interest income (Form 1040, line 8b)
Royalty income (Schedule E)
If the K-1 includes any deductions, expenses, credits, or other items not listed above, the return is out of scope.
D-49
Entering Rental Income in TaxSlayer
Volunteers must certify at Military level to prepare Schedule E for rental income.
2017
If the taxpayer made any payments that would require them to file Form 1099, the return is out of scope.
Enter the required information about the rental property in this section.
D-50
Entering Rental Income in TaxSlayer (continued)
Check here if taxpayer had any Enter the total rental Enter number of days
days of personal use, and enter payments received for the rented at fair rental value.
the number of days here. tax year.
Use Schedule E to report rental income only Check here if the taxpayer actively participated. A rental
when taxpayer is not in the business of renting loss will not appear on Form 1040, unless the taxpayer
property. If in the business, return is out of scope. actively participated. In order to actively participate, the
Refer taxpayers who are in the business of taxpayer must have substantial involvement in managing
renting properties to a professional tax preparer. the rental property, such as making management
decisions and arranging for repairs.
Click here to edit the physical address, type of

property, and to report the number of fair rental
and personal use days.
Clicking here will complete Form

4562. If Form 4562 is required,
the tax return is out of scope.
Click here to enter

rental expenses.
Click here to enter

vehicle expenses.
D-51
Entering Rental Income in TaxSlayer (continued)
Enter taxpayer-provided depreciation

amount here as a positive number.
Caution: If the rental property has both personal and rental use days, you must manually compute the percentage to use
on the rental expenses. For example if the house is rented half the year and you paid $4,000 for Mortgage Interest, you
have to manually input $2,000 on the Mortgage Interest line.
D-52
Other Income
Detailed information for each income type found on subsequent pages.
Use Other Inc. Not Reported Elsewhere to enter amounts Gambling winnings are reported Use the Other
from: to the taxpayer on Form W-2G Compensation menu to
Form 1099-MISC Box 3 (Other Income), or Box 7 and are fully taxable and must report scholarships and
(hobby income) or Box 8 (Substitute payments in lieu of be reported as income on the tax grants, taxable fringe
dividends or interest.) return. Gambling Losses up to the benefits, household
Jury Duty Pay amount of winnings reported may employee income, prisoner
Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend be deducted as a Miscellaneous earned income and foreign
Gambling winnings not reported on a Form W-2 (use the deduction, not subject to the 2% compensation.
description Gambling Winnings) limit on Schedule A.
Other income not entered elsewhere on the return
Cancellation of Debt from a In scope ONLY for those with The K-1 Earnings menu allows
credit card or Primary Mortgage International Certification: United you to enter all items of income,
Forgiveness are in scope States Citizens and resident aliens deductions, etc. that were reported
for preparers with advance who live and work abroad may be to your client on Form K-1 from
certifications. able to exclude all or part of their either a partnership (Form 1065),
foreign salary or wages from their S-Corporation (Form 1120S) ,
income when filing their U.S. federal or trust (Form 1041). Enter the
tax return. They may also qualify amounts from the K-1 in the
Taxable distributions from to exclude compensation for their spaces provided exactly as they
Coverdell Education Savings personal services or certain foreign appear on your clients paper K-1.
Accounts (ESAs), Qualified Tuition housing costs.
Programs (QTPs) or Achieving
a Better Life Experience (ABLE)
accounts are out of scope.
D-53
Entering Foreign Earned Income Exclusion
Information in TaxSlayer (International
Certification only)
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Income>Other Income>Foreign Earned Income Exclusion, 1040
View Line 21, or Keyword Form 2555
U.S. citizens and U.S. resident aliens are

required to report worldwide income on a
U.S. tax return.
However, certain taxpayers can exclude
income earned while living in foreign
countries.
To claim the foreign earned income

exclusion, taxpayers must:
Demonstrate that their tax home is in a
foreign country
Meet either the bona fide residence test
or the physical presence test
Have income that qualifies as foreign
earned income (reported on Form 1040,
line 7 as taxable wages or on line 12 as
self-employment income.)
The foreign earned income exclusion doesnt

apply to wages and salaries of U.S. military
members and civilian employees of the U.S.
government.
If the taxpayer qualifies to exclude foreign

earned income, the excludable amount will
be reported as a negative amount on Form
1040, line 21.
For 2017, the maximum exclusion is

$102,100.
You cant exclude or deduct more than the

taxpayers foreign earned income for the
year.
D-54
Certification only) (continued)
Enter information for the taxpayers tax home. The tax

home is the taxpayers regular or principal place of
business, employment, or post of duty, regardless of where
the taxpayer maintains a family residence. A taxpayer may
have more than one tax home during the year.
D-55
To meet the period of stay requirement, the taxpayer must be either:
A U.S. citizen or U.S. resident alien from a tax treaty country who is a bona fide resident of a foreign country (or countries) for an
uninterrupted period that includes an entire tax year, or
A U.S. citizen or U.S. resident alien who is physically present in a foreign country or countries for at least 330 full days during any
period of 12 consecutive months
The 12-month period on which the physical

presence test is based must include 365 days,
part of which must be in 2017. The dates may
begin or end in a calendar year other than 2017.
To figure 330 full days, add all separate periods

you were present in a foreign country during the
12-month period.
D-56
If the taxpayer left the principal country of residence during the tax year, enter the
information requested for each additional country he or she visited.
If no money was earned Days in the United States If more than one additional country was
in the country to which the are entered in a separate visited, click Add Country.
taxpayer travelled, enter $0. field. Click Clear if the taxpayer did not visit any
other countries during their time abroad.
D-57
Bona Fide Residence Test

To meet the bona fide
residence test, taxpayers
must show that they have set
up permanent quarters in a
foreign country for an entire,
uninterrupted tax year. Simply
going to another country to
work for a year or more isnt
enough to meet the bona fide
residence test. A taxpayer must
establish a residence in the
foreign country.
If the taxpayer was present

in the United States or its
possessions during the tax
year, enter the information for
each trip.
To add another trip, click
Add New
If the taxpayer did not visit
the US or its possessions
during the year, click
CLEAR to remove this item
Dont include income earned

while in the United States in
the amount of foreign earned
income to be excluded (next
page).
A brief trip to the U.S. will not

prevent the taxpayer from
being a bona fide resident, as
long as the intention to return
to the foreign country is clear.
D-58
Enter the income the taxpayer

earned during the 2017 tax year
for services performed in a foreign
country. This income should already
have been entered on the tax return
as wages, foreign compensation, or
self-employment income.
Amounts paid by the United States
or its agencies to its employees dont
qualify for the exclusion.
D-59
Enter the number of days in your qualifying period that fall within your 2017 tax year. Your qualifying period is the period during which
you meet the tax home test and either the bona fide residence or the physical presence test.
2017
D-60
Entering Other Compensation in TaxSlayer
Scholarships and grants used to pay for tuition, fees and course- Enter wages received as a household employee
related expenses are NOT taxable. Use this link to report only for which the taxpayer did not receive a Form W-2
amounts that were used for non-qualifying expenses. SCH will because the employer paid less than $2,000 in
appear on the dotted line next to line 7 on Form 1040. Taxable 2017. HSH will appear on the dotted line next to
scholarship is considered unearned income. line 7 on Form 1040.
Enter foreign earned income (wages, salaries, etc.) Enter the amount received for work while an inmate in a penal institution.
paid by a foreign employer for work performed while For purposes of the Earned Income Credit, this isnt considered earned
the taxpayer lived in a foreign country. income. This includes amounts received for work performed while in a
work release program or while in a halfway house. PRI will appear on the
dotted line next to line 7 on Form 1040. This entry is made in addition to
entering the Form W-2 from the penal institution.
When entering compensation on a joint return, be careful to indicate

whether the income belonged to the taxpayer or the spouse.
D-61
Entering Medicaid Waiver Payments
Scenario A:
If income is reported on Form W-2 (and payer will not change), enter the Form W-2 as provided. Then, go to line 21>Other
income not reported elsewhere>enter Notice 2014-7 in the description field and the amount as a negative number. Then,
go to Other Income>Other Compensation and enter the income as Medicaid Waiver wages. This will remove the income
from EIC and other credit calculations as necessary. (Note: At the time this publication was finalized, this line was not
available in the Practice Lab. To prepare a return with this scenario in the Practice Lab, enter the amount as Prisoner
Earned Income, which will have the same effect.)
Scenario B:
If income is reported on a Form 1099-MISC, go to line 21>Other income not reported elsewhere>enter Notice 2014-7 in
the description field and $0 in the amount field.
Scenario C:
If income is reported on a Form 1099-MISC and you are in the business of providing home care services, enter the full
amount of payments under Gross Receipts in the Schedule C Income section. In Other Expenses, enter Notice 2014-7 as
the description and the amount as a positive number.
D-62
Publication 4731
Screening Sheet for Nonbusiness Credit Card Debt
Cancellation
Instructions: Use this Screening Sheet for taxpayers with Form 1099-C or other documentation resulting from
cancellation of nonbusiness credit card debt and to assist in identifying taxpayers with cancellation of credit card debt
issues.
Credit Card Debt
step Did the taxpayer receive Form 1099-C, Cancellation of Debt, or other documenta- YES Go to Step 2
1 tion (if less than $600) from a creditor and is the information shown on the form or NO Go to Step 6
document correct?
Note: The creditor is not required to issue a Form 1099-C if the canceled debt is
under $600. However, the taxpayer may be required to report the canceled debt as
income regardless of the amount.
step Was the credit card debt related to a business? YES Go to Step 6
2 NO Go to Step 3
step Does box 6 of the Form 1099-C indicate Code A for bankruptcy? YES Go to Step 6
3 Note: If box 6 is not marked with a Code A, but the taxpayer has NO Go to Step 4
subsequently filed bankruptcy, answer yes.
step Was the taxpayer insolvent immediately before the cancellation of debt? YES Go to Step 6
4 NO Go to Step 5
Use the Insolvency Determination Worksheet in Publication 4012 and interview
the taxpayer to determine if the taxpayer was insolvent immediately before the
cancellation of debt.
step The cancellation of nonbusiness indebtedness or cancellation of debt (the amount in box 2 of Form 1099-C
5 or an amount less than $600 provided in other documentation) must be reported as ordinary income on Form
1040, line 21 (Other Income). No additional supporting forms or schedules are required for reporting income
from canceled credit card debt.
step This tax issue is outside the scope of the volunteer programs. The taxpayer may qualify to exclude all or
6 some of the discharged debt. However, the rules involved are complex.
Refer the taxpayer to:
www.irs.gov for the most up-to-date information.
The Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS): 1-877-777-4778, TTY/TDD 1-800-829-4059. TAS may help if the
problem cannot be resolved through normal IRS channels.
A professional tax preparer.
Publication 4731 (Rev. 10-2017) Catalog Number 52643X Department of the Treasury Internal Revenue Service www.irs.gov
D-63
Insolvency Determination Worksheet
Assets (FMV) Liabilities

Homes $ Mortgages $
Cars Home equity loans
Recreational vehicles, etc. Vehicle loans
Bank accounts Personal signature loans
IRAs, 401Ks, etc. Credit card debts
Jewelry Past-due mortgage interest, real
Furniture estate taxes, utilities, and child
Clothes care costs
Misc. Student loans
Other liabilities
Other assets
Total Liabilities: $
Total Assets: $
Total Assets minus Total Liabilities = $

(Negative amount equals insolvency)
(Positive amount equals solvency)
D-64
Entering Cancellation of Credit Card Debt in
TaxSlayer
Generally, if a debt for which a taxpayer is personally liable is canceled or forgiven, the taxpayer must include the
canceled amount in income.
Caution: Be sure to ask if the taxpayer was insolvent or in bankruptcy these situations makes the return out of scope.
Cancellation of Credit Card Debt and Forgiveness of Qualified Principal Residence Indebtedness is within the scope of
the volunteer program.
If the taxpayer has another type of debt forgiven, or may have been insolvent at the time of the debt forgiveness, the
taxpayer should be referred to a professional.
Enter the information from the Form 1099-C.

Be sure to indicate whether the cancelled debt was for the taxpayer or the spouse.
If the Form 1099-C was for mortgage forgiven on the taxpayers main home, see the next section on Discharge of
Qualified Principal Residence Indebtedness, on the next page.
D-65
Notes
D-66
E. Adjustments
Adjustments to Income
Taxslayer Navigation: Federal Section>Adjustments>1040 View line
Must be Certified for Military. Check the

box near the top of the form to indicate Health Savings Account select to open
an Armed Forces PCS move. Form 8889. (HSA Certification required)
Flows over from input of Form 1099- See Legislative Extenders Tab for additional
INT in Interest Income. information.
Student Loan Interest paid is entered here
If the taxpayer paid alimony to more than

one person, add a second payee after
entering the first.
Note: Military reservists who must travel more than 100 miles away from home and stay overnight to attend a drill or
reserve meeting may be able to deduct their travel expenses as an adjustment to income rather than as a miscellaneous
itemized deduction.
The amount of expenses that can be deducted is limited to the

1) actual lodging costs,
2) federal rate for per diem (for meals and incidental expenses) and
3) standard mileage rate (for car expenses) plus any parking fees, ferry fees and/or tolls.
E-1
Educator Expenses
Dont rely on this table alone. Refer to Publication 17 for more details.
Taxslayer Navigation: Federal section>Adjustments>Educator Expenses>1040 View line 34
Question Answer
What is the maximum benefit? $250 (If the taxpayer and spouse are both eligible educators, they can
deduct up to $500, but neither can deduct more than their own expenses
up to $250). Taxpayers may be able to deduct expenses that are more than
the limit as a miscellaneous deduction on Schedule A.
Who can claim the expense? Eligible Educators an eligible educator is a kindergarten through grade
12 teacher, instructor, counselor, principal, or aide who worked in a school
for at least 900 hours during a school year.
What are qualifying expenses? Qualifying expenses include ordinary and necessary expenses paid in
connection with books, supplies, equipment (including computer equipment,
software, and services), and other materials used in the classroom.
Additionally, professional development expenses.
What are non qualifying expenses? Expenses for home schooling or non-athletic supplies for courses in health
or physical education.
What other issues apply? Taxpayer must reduce qualified expenses by

Excludable U.S series EE and I savings bond interest from Form 8815
Nontaxable qualified tuition program earnings or distributions
Nontaxable distribution of earnings from a Coverdell education savings
account
Any reimbursements received for expenses that werent reported on the
Form W-2
Note: Professional development expenses include courses related to the curriculum in which the educator provides
instruction.
Caution: The deduction amount will be indexed for inflation for future years.
E-2
Health Saving Accounts (HSA)
Dont rely on this document alone. Refer to HSA references to provide assistance.
How will you know if the taxpayer has an HSA issue?
The Interview/Intake & Quality Review Sheet has the Yes or Unsure HSA box checked.
The taxpayers (or spouses) Form W-2 has a box 12 entry of code W for employer contributions. [Caution: contributions to an em-
ployees account through a Section 125 (cafeteria) plan are treated as employer contributions and arent deductible.]
The taxpayer (or spouse) has a Form 1099-SA with an X in box 5 showing distributions from an HSA.
The taxpayer (or spouse) may receive Form 5498-SA for their HSA contributions. If taxpayers dont have this form they can provide
the information regarding HSA contributions based on their records.
Select the appropriate(HDHP) coverage for the Employee contributions are entered here.
taxpayer: Self-only or family. This determines the Contributions by relatives and friends are
maximum HSA contribution limits. considered to be made by taxpayer. Dont include
employer contributions on this line.
The account holder needs to tell you how much
was put in the HSA, because they might not have
received the Form 5498-SA by the time theyre
preparing their tax return.
2017
2017
2017
Enter number of months you had a Health Savings

Account, a high deductible policy and no other major
medical policy(including Medicare) and could not
be claimed as dependent.
E-3
Health Saving Accounts (HSA) (continued)
Enter HSA distributions here. Ask the taxpayer for Enter amount spent on qualifying Form 8889 will calculate the
Form 1099-SA, with the HSA box checked. If not an medical expenses not reimbursed by amount of excess contributions,
HSA distribution, refer the taxpayer to a professional insurance. if any. Caution: If the excess
tax preparer. isnt withdrawn by the due date
of the return then the return is
out-of-scope.
If the taxpayer meets one of exceptions to the 20% Age 55 or older, look up catch up
additional tax, check this box. The exceptions are that contribution limits in Form 8889
the account beneficiary dies, becomes disabled, or instructions.
turns age 65
Qualified medical expenses are expenses that generally would qualify for medical and dental expenses deduction.
Examples include unreimbused expenses for doctors dentists, and hospitals.
Only these Insurance premiums can be included: a) long-term care insurance based on premium limits shown in Whats New tab,
b) health care continuation coverage such as coverage under COBRA, c) health care coverage while receiving unemployment
compensation, and d) Medicare and other health care coverage if the taxpayer was 65 or older (other than premiums for Medicare
supplemental policy, such as Medigap)
A medicine or drug will be qualified medical expense only if the medicine or drug: a) requires a prescription, b) is available without a
prescription (an over-the counter medicine or drug) and the taxpayer gets prescription for it, or c) is insulin.
E-4
Publication 4885
Screening Sheet for Health Savings Accounts (HSA)
NOTE: Only volunteers with Health Savings Account Certification may assist taxpayers
with HSA issues.
Instructions: This Screening Sheet will help you identify HSA issues that are within the scope of the VITA/TCE program. Use
the Determine HSA Eligibility section to determine if taxpayer is eligible for an HSA; use Part I for contributions/deduction; use
Part II for distributions. References: Publication 969, Form 8889 and Instructions
Determine HSA Eligibility (To set up an HSA or make contributions to an HSA)

TO QUALIFY: An individual must meet ALL the following requirements:
Be covered under a high deductible health plan (HDHP) on the first day of any month of the year.
Have no other health coverage except for allowable other health coverage. (Publication 969, Other health coverage)
Not be claimed as a dependent on someone elses tax return. (Publication 969, Qualifying for an HSA)
Not be covered by Medicare (but the individual can be HSA eligible for the months before being covered by Medicare)
NOTE: If the taxpayer doesnt qualify, but contributions have been made to an HSA, the taxpayer should be referred to a
professional tax preparer.
PART I HSA Contributions and Deduction

step If eligible, were contributions made to an HSA?
1 YES Complete Form 8889, Part, I,
lines 1 and 2. Go to Step 2.
NO STOP.
step Was the taxpayer enrolled in the same HDHP coverage for the entire year? YES Complete Form 8889, Part I,
2 (Answer Yes, if last-month rule applies, and see Form 8889 Instructions) lines 3-13.
Caution: If line 2 is more than line 13, the taxpayer must withdraw the excess FOR YES AND NO: Lines 4 and 10
contribution to avoid an additional tax. If the excess is not timely withdrawn, refer the are out of scope.
taxpayer to a professional tax preparer. (Refer to Form 8889 Instructions, line 13). NO Refer to Form 8889
Instructions for additional information
on completing line 3.
PART II HSA Distributions

step Did the taxpayer receive distributions from the HSA trustee (whether or not YES Complete Form 8889 Part II,
1 Form 1099-SA received)? Line 14a, 14b, if applicable, and 14c.
Go to Step 2.
NO STOP, do not complete Part II.
step Did the taxpayer use all or part of the distribution to pay or get reimbursed for YES Enter the amount on line 15
2 qualified medical expenses during the year that were incurred after the HSA and complete line 16. Go to Step 3.
was established and were for qualified persons?
NO Enter zero on line 15 and
complete line 16. Go to Step 3.
step If any part of the distribution is taxable, was the distribution made after the YES Check box on line 17a and
3 taxpayer died, became disabled or turned 65? complete 17b.
NO Taxpayer will be subject to an
additional 20% tax.
Publication 4885
Publication (Rev.
4885 10-2016)Catalog
(10-2017) Catalog Number
Number 55732V
55732V Department
Department of the
of the Treasury
Treasury Internal
Internal Revenue
Revenue Service
Service www.irs.gov
www.irs.gov
E-5
Alimony Requirements
(Instruments Executed After 1984)
Payments ARE alimony if all of the following are true: Payments ARENT alimony if any of the following are true:
Payments are required by a divorce or separation Payments arent required by a divorce or separation
instrument. instrument.
Payer and recipient spouse dont file a joint return with Payer and recipient spouse file a joint return with each other.
each other.
Payment is in cash (including checks or money orders). Payment is:
Not in cash,
A noncash property settlement,
Spouses part of community income, or
To keep up the payers property.
Payment isnt designated in the instrument as not Payment is designated in the instrument as not alimony.
alimony.
Spouses legally separated under a decree of divorce Spouses legally separated under a decree of divorce or
or separate maintenance arent members of the same separate maintenance are members of the same household.
household.
Payments arent required after death of the recipient Payments are required after death of the recipient spouse.
spouse.
Payment isnt treated as child support. Payment is treated as child support.
These payments are deductible by the payer and These payments are neither deductible by the payer nor
includible in income by the recipient. includible in income by the recipient.
E-6
IRA Deduction
Taxslayer Navigation: Federal Section>Adjustments>IRA deductions> 1040 view Line 32
Caution: If the total of traditional and Roth IRA

contributions exceed the lesser of total compensation or
the allowable limit, the taxpayer must withdraw the excess
before the filing deadline or a penalty will apply and the
return will be out of scope.
Note: Taxpayers age must be 70 or younger to contribute to a traditional IRA; if married filing separately, couldnt have
lived together any time during the year. Contributions can be made until the filing deadline (generally April 15) of the year
following the tax year.
Note: compensation for purposes of an IRA contribution includes alimony received.
TaxSlayer Hint: If the taxpayer made a traditional IRA contribution, select Adjustments from the Deductions menu,
then select IRA deduction. Dont enter a Roth IRA contribution on this screen. Enter it in the Credits section. If eligible,
the software will calculate a Retirement Savings Contributions Credit. Be sure to enter any applicable retirement plan
distributions. See the Nonrefundable Credits tab for more information on this credit.
E-7
Student Loan Interest Deduction at a Glance
Caution: This table is only an overview of the rules. For details, see Publication 17.
Taxslayer Navigation: Federal section>Adjustments>Student Loan Interest Deduction>1040 View line 33
Feature Description
Maximum benefit You can reduce your income subject to tax by up to $2,500.
Loan qualifications Your student loan: Taxpayer must be legally liable for the loan.
must have been taken out solely to pay education expenses, and
cant be from a related person or made under a qualified employer plan.
Student qualifications The student must be:

you, your spouse, or a person who was your dependent when you took out
the loan, or wouldve been your dependent except you were a dependent, or
had gross income over the exemption amount, or filed MFJ.
enrolled at least half-time in a program leading to a degree, certificate or
other recognized educational credential.
Time limit on deduction You can deduct interest paid during the remaining period of your
student loan.
Phaseout The amount of your deduction depends on your income level.
If student loan interest is paid by someone who isnt legally liable for it, the payment is treated as received by the person
whos legally liable, and the person legally liable is allowed to take the adjustment.
Note: Taxpayer cannot claim deduction if filing status is Married Filing Separately.
E-8
F. Deductions
Exhibit 1 Standard Deduction for Most People*
This table provides the standard deduction amounts for tax year 2017.
Your standard
If the taxpayers filing status is...
deduction is ...
Single or married filing separate return $6,350
Married filing joint return or qualifying widow(er) with

$12,700
dependent child
Head of household $9,350
*Dont use this chart if the taxpayer was born before January 2, 1953, or is blind, or if someone else
can claim an exemption for the taxpayer (or their spouse if married filing jointly).
Persons Not Eligible for the Standard

Deduction
Your standard deduction is zero and you should itemize any deductions you have if:
Your filing status is married filing separately, and your spouse itemizes deductions on his or
her return,
You are filing a tax return for a short tax year because of a change in your annual accounting
period, or
You are a nonresident or dual-status alien during the year. You are considered a dual-status
alien if you were both a nonresident and resident alien during the year.
If you are a nonresident alien who is married to a U.S. citizen or resident alien at the end of the
year, you can choose to be treated as a U.S. resident. (See Publication 519, U.S. Tax Guide for
Aliens.) If you make this choice, you can take the standard deduction.
If an exemption for you can be claimed on another taxpayers return (such as your parents
return), your standard deduction may be limited.
F-1
Standard Deduction Chart for People Born Standard Deduction Worksheet for Dependents
Before January 2, 1953, or Who are Blind Use this worksheet only if someone else can claim you
(or your spouse if filing jointly) as a dependent.
Check the correct number of boxes below. Then go to the chart.
Check the correct number of boxes below. Then go to the worksheet.
You: Born before
January 2, 1953 Blind You: Born before
Your spouse, if Born before January 2, 1953 Blind
claiming January 2, 1953 Blind Your spouse, if Born before
spouses exemption: claiming January 2, 1953 Blind
spouses exemption:
Total number of boxes checked Total number of boxes checked
IF your AND THEN
filing status is... the number in your 1. Enter your earned income (defined below). If none,
box above is... standard enter -0-. 1.
deduction
is...
2. Additional amount. 2. $350
Single 1 $ 7,900
2 9,450 3. Add lines 1 and 2. 3.
Married filing jointly 1 $13,950
or Qualifying
2 15,200 4. Minimum standard deduction. 4. $1,050
widow(er) with
dependent child 3 16,450
17,700
5. Enter the larger of line 3 or line 4. 5.
4
Married filing separately 1 $ 7,600 6. Enter the amount shown below for your filing
2 8,850 status.
3 10,100 Single or Married filing separately

$6,350 6.
4 11,350
Married filing jointly$12,700
Head of household 1 $10,900
Head of household$9,350
2 12,450
*If someone else can claim you (or your spouse if filing jointly) as a dependent,
use standarddeductionworksheetfordependents. 7. Standard deduction.
a. Enter the smaller of line 5 or line 6. If born
after January 1, 1953, and not blind, stop here.
This is your standard deduction. Otherwise, go
on to line 7b. 7a.
b. If born before January 2, 1953, or blind,
multiply $1,550 ($1,250 if married) by the
number in the box above. 7b.
c. Add lines 7a and 7b. This is your standard
deduction for 2017 7c.
Earned income includes wages, salaries, tips, professional fees,
and other compensation received for personal services you performed.
It also includes any amount received as a scholarship that you must
include in your income.
F-2
Interview Tips Itemized Deductions
These interview tips will assist you in determining whether a taxpayers itemized deductions are
more than their standard deduction amount. It may be more advantageous for a taxpayer to
itemize their deductions if the amount is larger than the allowable standard deduction amount.
step Do you have expenses in the following categories: medical If YES, go to Step 2.
1 and dental expenses, taxes you paid, home mortgage If NO, generally speaking, you
interest you paid, gifts to charity, job expenses, and certain should take the standard deduction
miscellaneous deductions? if eligible. For further explanation
Note: Casualty and theft losses and some miscellaneous see exceptions in Publication 17,
deductions are beyond the scope of VITA/TCE. Standard Deduction chapter.
step Were the medical and dental expenses paid by an employer If YES, you cant deduct reimbursed
2 under a pre-tax plan (not included in box 1 of the taxpayers expenses. Go to Step 4.
Form W-2) or were the expenses reimbursed by an If NO, you can claim these
insurance company? expenses. Go to Step 3.
step Were the medical and dental expenses more than 10% of If YES, you can claim qualified
3 your adjusted gross income expenses. Go to Step 4.
Note: You can include medical and dental bills you paid for: If NO, you cant deduct these
Yourself and your spouse expenses. Go to Step 4.
All dependents you claim on your return

Your child whom you dont claim as a dependent
because of the rules for children of divorced or
separated parents
Any person you could have claimed as a dependent on
your return except that person received $4,050 or more
of gross income or filed a joint return
Any person you could have claimed as a dependent
except that you, or your spouse if filing jointly, can be
claimed as a dependent on someone elses 2017 return
step Were the following taxes you paid imposed on you: state If YES, go to Step 5.
4 sales tax, local or foreign income taxes, real or personal If NO, you cant claim this expense
property taxes? as a deduction because you werent
obligated to pay the taxes. Go to
Step 6.
step Did you pay these taxes during this tax year? If YES, you can claim these
5 expenses and go to Step 6.
If NO, you cant deduct taxes for
this year that were paid in another
year. Go to Step 6.
step Are you legally liable for a home mortgage loan? If YES, go to Step 7.
6 If NO, you cant take an interest
expense for a mortgage for which
you arent legally liable. Go to Step
12.
F-3
Interview Tips Itemized Deductions
(continued)
step Was the mortgage a secured debt on a main If YES, go to Step 8.
7 or second home? If NO, you cant take an interest expense. Go to Step 11.
step Did you pay the mortgage interest in this If YES, go to Step 9.
8 tax year? If NO, you cant take the mortgage interest deduction. Go to
Step 11.
step Did you take out the mortgage on or before If YES, your mortgage interest is fully deductible. Go to Step
9 October 13, 1987? 10.
If NO, follow the flowchart, Is My Home Mortgage Interest
Fully Deductible in Publication 17 to determine what is
deductible. Go to Step 11.
step Did you pay points to obtain a home mortgage If YES, follow the Are My Points Fully Deductible This Year
10 (on a main home or second home or home flowchart in Publication 17 and then go to Step 11. See Note 1.
improvement loan or to refinance your home)? If NO, go to Step 11.
step Did you make a cash contribution to a If YES, you must have a written record from
11 qualified organization? that particular organization, and then go to Step 12.
step Did you make a noncash donation to a If YES, advise the taxpayer that generally he or she must
12 qualified organization? have a written receipt from that particular organization. Go to
Note: Generally the value of a donation is the Step 13.
lesser of your cost or fair market value. If NO, Go to Step 14
step Is the total of all noncash donations $500 If YES, see Publication 17 for more details. Go to Step 14.
13 or less? If NO, this is beyond the scope of VITA/TCE. Refer taxpayer
to a professional tax preparer. Go to Step 14.
step Do you have any employee, job hunting or If YES, report the expenses on Schedule A, Job Expenses
14 investment expenses? and Certain Miscellaneous Deductions.
If NO, your employee and investment expenses arent
deductible.
Note 1: If you refinanced in an earlier year, and werent eligible to take all the points in that year, you can add in this years
portion of those prior year points.
Note 2: For noncash donations less than $250, you are not required to have a receipt where it is impractical to get one (for
example if you leave property at a charitys unattended drop site).
F-4
Schedule A Itemized Deductions
TaxSlayer Navigation: line 40 from 1040 View>Medical and Dental Expenses or click on Deductions from
Federal Section>Itemized Deductions>Medical and Dental Expenses
If itemizing deductions, select itemized

deductions. If MFS and spouse itemizes,
taxpayer must also itemize. Standard
deduction cant be used. It doesnt matter
which spouse files first. Select to force
Select to enter medical expenses. itemized deduction.
Select to enter state and

local taxes paid during
the tax year in addition to
income tax withheld.
Schedule A Deductible and Non Deductible Medical Expenses
Caution: Taxpayers cannot include expenses paid for controlled substances.
F-5
Schedule A - Itemized Deductions (continued)
Note: Medical and dental floor
percentage is 10%. Some
senior residences have an
amount in the monthly cost
which is a medical expense.
[Type a quote f
summary of an
position the te
document. Use
change the form
box.]
Schedule A - Taxes You Paid
Click here to calculate general sales tax

deductions. Be sure to base sales tax on total
income - taxable and non taxable.
Enter real estate taxes that are reported on

Form 1098 with the mortgage interest on the
mortgage interest screen.
Enter vehicle license registration fee if based

on value under Personal Property taxes.
F-6
If taxpayers purchased or sold home in the tax year, they may not be able to deduct all Real Estate Taxes. Subtract
any property tax refund received at closing. (see Publication 17, Real Estate Taxes for more information).
Taxes you cannot deduct: utilities, fees/licenses (drivers, marriage, dog); assessments for improvements that
increase property value; assessments for services to the property (sewer, trash collection, etc.).
F-6
Select for mortgage interest reported on Form 1098.Enter

amount from Form 1098, box 1 (and box 2, if applicable).
If there are multiple Points from refinancing must be spread over the life of the mortgage
mortgages, make additional unless used to remodel (see Publication 17, Points). Enter loan
Schedule A Interest entries. origination fee from closing statement as Points not reported on
Form 1098 if not included as points on Form 1098.
These types of donations are not deductible: political; country club/fraternal lodge; chambers of commerce; raffle,
bingo, or lottery tickets; tuition; value of time/services; gifts to lobby groups; civic leagues, social clubs; labor unions,
homeowners association dues.
F-7
The cost of charitable raffles, bingos etc are not deductible as charitable donations but can be deducted as gambling
losses to the extent of winnings.
Note: Enter amounts

given by cash or
check under Cash
Gifts to Charity. The
30% & 50% refer to
the percentage of
your AGI that can be
deducted this year.
See Publication 17
for definitions. Enter
the value of noncash
items (including
miles driven in
service to a charity)
donated under Non-
Cash Gifts to Charity.
Be careful to list
them separately.
If Non-Cash
contributions are
greater than $500
Form 8283 must be
completed and this
form is out of scope.
Schedule A - Miscellaneous Deductions
Gambling losses up to the amount of

winnings are deducted here. You cant
deduct gambling losses that are more
than the taxpayers winnings reported
on Line 21.
Non deductible Miscellaneous

expenses: commuting; home repair;
rent; loss from sale of home; personal
legal expenses; lost/misplaced cash or
property; fines/penalties.
F-8
Schedule A Job Related Travel Expenses
Travel Expenses
This chart summarizes expenses you can deduct when you travel away from your home for
business purposes. (See publication 17 for definition of tax home)
Note: If you are an employee, travel expenses are deductible on Schedule A, Job Expenses and
Certain Miscellaneous Deductions subject to the 2% of AGI Limit. If you are self employed, travel
expenses are deductible as business expenses on Schedule C.
IF you have
expenses for... THEN you can deduct the cost of...
transportation travel by airplane, train, bus, or car between your home and your business destination. If you
were provided with a ticket or you are riding free as a result of a frequent traveler or similar
program, your cost is zero. If you travel by ship, see Luxury Water Travel and Cruise Ships
(under Conventions) for additional rules and limits.
taxi, commuter fares for these and other types of transportation that take you between:
bus, and airport The airport or station and your hotel, and
limousine The hotel and the work location of your customers or clients, your business meeting place,
or your temporary work location.
baggage and sending baggage and sample or display material between your regular and temporary work
shipping locations.
car operating and maintaining your car when traveling away from home on business. You can
deduct actual expenses or the standard mileage rate, as well as business-related tolls
and parking. If you rent a car while away from home on business, you can deduct only the
business-use portion of the expenses. Important note: The actual expense method is out of
scope for the VITA/TCE program. If the taxpayer is using actual expenses for car expenses,
refer the taxpayer to a professional tax preparer.
lodging and your lodging and meals if your business trip is overnight or long enough that you need to stop
meals for sleep or rest to properly perform your duties. Meals include the actual cost or standard
deduction for meals and incidental expenses (M&IE). See Meals in Publication 17, Car
Expenses and Other Employee Business Expenses for additional
rules and limits.
cleaning dry cleaning and laundry.
telephone business calls while on your business trip. This includes business communication by fax
machine or other communication devices.
tips tips you pay for any expenses in this chart.
other other similar ordinary and necessary expenses related to your business travel. These
expenses might include transportation to or from a business meal, public stenographers fees,
computer rental fees, and operating and maintaining a house trailer.
F-9
Schedule A Job Related Travel Expenses (continued)
Deductible Entertainment Expenses

When Are Entertainment Expenses Deducted?
General rule You can deduct ordinary and necessary expenses to entertain a client, customer, or
employee if the expenses meet the directly-related test or the associated test. If you
deduct travel, entertainment, gift, or transportation expenses, you must be able to prove
(substantiate) certain elements of the expense.
Definitions Entertainment includes any activity generally considered to provide entertainment,
amusement, or recreation, and includes meals provided to a customer or client.
An ordinary expense is one that is common and accepted in your trade or business.
A necessary expense is one that is helpful and appropriate.
Tests to be met Directly-related test

Entertainment took place in a clear business setting, or
Main purpose of entertainment was the active conduct of business, and you did engage
in business with the person during the entertainment period, and you had more than a
general expectation of getting income or some other specific business benefit.
Associated test
Entertainment is associated with your trade or business, and
Entertainment directly before or after a substantial business discussion.
Other rules You cant deduct the cost of your meal as an entertainment expense if you are claiming
the meal as a travel expense.
You cant deduct expenses that are lavish or extravagant under the circumstances.
You generally can deduct only 50% of your unreimbursed entertainment expenses (see
50% Limit).
F-10
Schedule A Job Related Transportation Expenses
50% Limit valu

Does
Figure A.Table the 50%
3. Does the 50%Limit
LimitApply
Apply to YourExpenses?
to Your Expenses? can
There
There are are exceptions
exceptions to thesetorules.
theseSeerules. See Exceptions
Publication to the
463 for additional 50% Limit.
guidance.
All employees and self-employed persons can use this chart. Ex

Start Here Gen
men
Were your meal and entertainment expenses reimbursed? Figu
(Count only reimbursements your employer didn't app
include in box 1 of your Form W-2. If self-employed,
count only reimbursements from clients or customers that No Exp
aren't included on Form 1099-MISC, Miscellaneous mea
Income.) the
follo
Yes
1
you
If an employee, did you adequately account 50%
to your employer under an accountable plan? reim
If self-employed, did you provide the payer No cou
with adequate records? (See chapter 6.)
2
self
Yes tain
limi
Did your expenses exceed the reimbursement?
No Yes

For the amount reimbursed... For the excess amount...
Your meal and entertainment

expenses AREN'T subject to In
Your meal and
the 50% limit. However, since to th
entertainment expenses
the reimbursement wasn't ARE subject to
treated as wages or as other E
the 50% limit.*
taxable income, you can't who
deduct the expenses. tain
you
the
*50% limit for most taxpayers; 80% for those subject to Department of Transportation hours of service. you
See Publication 463 for more information.
Figure A summarizes the general rules Application of 50% limit. The 50% limit on ded
explained in this section. meal and entertainment expenses applies if theF-11 50%
The 50% limit applies to business meals or expense is otherwise deductible and is not cov-
Tempora

Figure B. When Are Transportation
Deductible
Most employeesand
Expenses Expenses
Transportation Deductible?
andself-employed
self-employed persons can this
usechart.
this chart.
more reg
Most employees persons can use home and
(Do not use this chart if your home is your principal place of business.
(Dont use this chart if your home is your principal place of business.) location in
See Office in the home.)
deduct th
transporta
porary loc
a
v e If you
ha b realistical
o u jo n
y in io
if ma cat last) for 1
Al
w
le r lo rary unles
ay
tib ar o er
s
c l h Temporary
du gu ot that would
de
work location
De re t an
du
If you
ct
a
ib
realistical
le
Always
deductible or if there
employme
ployment
whether it
Never deductible If emp
realistical
Home Regular or
but at som
main job cally expe
employme
Always less there
deductible would ind
Ne
changes.
ve
rd
the date y
ed
year.
uc
tib
If the t
le
general a
you stay o
Second job home. Yo
penses as
Home: The place where you reside. Transportation expenses between your home and
your main or regular place of work are personal commuting expenses. No regul
Regular or main job: Your principal place of business. If you have more than one job, regular pl
you must determine which one is your regular or main job. Consider the time you metropolit
spend at each, the activity you have at each, and the income you earn at each. duct daily
and a tem
Temporary work location: A place where your work assignment is realistically
itan area.
expected to last (and does in fact last) one year or less. Unless you have a regular
place of business, you can only deduct your transportation expenses to a temporary
Gener
work location outside your metropolitan area. area with
are consid
Second job: If you regularly work at two or more places in one day, whether or not
You ca
for the same employer, you can deduct your transportation expenses of getting from
between
one workplace to another. If you don't go directly from your first job to your second
within you
job, you can only deduct the transportation expenses of going directly from your first
ductible c
job to your second job. You can't deduct your transportation expenses between
your home and a second job on a day off from your main job.
Two plac
in one da
ployer, yo
F-12 Going to a business meeting away from from one
your regular workplace. some per
Recordkeeping
How to Prove Certain Business Expenses
If you have THEN you must keep records that show details of the following elements . . .
expenses for ...
Amount Time Place or Business Purpose

Description Business Relationship
Travel Cost of each Dates you left Destination or area Purpose: Business purpose for the
separate expense and returned of your travel (name expense or the business benefit
for travel, lodging, for each trip of city, town, or other gained or expected to be gained.
and meals. Incidental and number of designation).
expenses may be days spent on Relationship: N/A
totaled in reasonable business.
categories such as
taxis, fees and tips,
etc.
Entertainment Cost of each Date of Name and address Purpose: Business purpose for the
separate expense. entertainment. or location of place of expense or the business benefit
Incidental expenses (Also see entertainment. Type gained or expected to be gained.
such as taxis, Business of entertainment if not For entertainment, the nature of the
telephones, etc., may Purpose.) otherwise apparent. business discussion or activity. If the
be totaled on a daily (Also see Business entertainment was directly before
basis. Purpose.) or after a business discussion: the
date, place, nature, and duration of
the business discussion, and the
identities of the persons who took
part in both the business discussion
and the entertainment activity.
Relationship: Occupations or other

information (such as names, titles,
or other designations) about the
recipients that shows their business
relationship to you.
For entertainment, you must also

prove that you or your employee was
present if the entertainment was a
business meal.
Gifts Cost of the gift. Date of the gift. Description of the gift.
Transportation Cost of each Date of the Your business Purpose: Business purpose for the
separate expense. expense. For destination. expense.
For car expenses, car expenses,
the cost of the the date of the Relationship: N/A
car and any use of the car.
improvements, the
date you started
using it for business,
the mileage for each
business use, and
the total miles for the
year.
F-13
Notes
F-14
G. Nonrefundable
Credits
Nonrefundable Credits
Select for Form 2441,

Select for Form 8863, Page 1, Line 49, Form
Lines 50 and 68, Form 1040. See Child Tax
1040. See Education Credit Tip & Interview Select for Form 1116,
Benefits Tab Tips, later Foreign Tax Credit
Select for Form 8880, for Retirement Select for Form 5695 Select for Schedule
Savings Contributions Credit. See Legislative R, Line 54, Box C,
Complete this screen if taxpayer Extenders tab for more Form 1040
received any distributions from information.
retirement plans Select for EIC
worksheets, See
Line 66a, Form 1040
and Earned Income
Hint: Remember, the nonrefundable credits can't exceed the taxpayers federal income tax. Credit Tab
Form 8863
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Deductions>Credit Menu>Education Credits Form 1098-T. For complete
education credit information refer to Tab J - Education Benefits
Schedule R
If taxpayer qualifies for the credit for the elderly or the disabled, open Schedule R. Refer to the Elderly or Disabled
Decision Tree on the last page of this tab.
G-1
Form 1116 Foreign Tax Credit
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Deductions>Credits>Foreign Tax Credit, 1040 View Line 48, or Keyword "1116"
ONLY the Simplified Limitation Election for the foreign tax credit is in scope for Advanced certification.
To be eligible for this election, qualified foreign taxes must be $300 ($600 if MFJ) or less, all foreign
source income is passive category (such as interest and dividends) and taxpayer meets the other
requirements as explained in the Form 1116 Instructions. Do not enter amounts from Forms 1099-INT
or 1099-DIV, box 6. The software will include these in the foreign tax credit calculation.
G-2
Form 1116 Foreign Tax Credit (continued)
FOR INTERNATIONAL CERTIFICATION ONLY:
Passive and General limited income

are in scope for VITA/TCE with
International Certification.
Select the appropriate category. If
taxpayer has income in more than
one category or from more than
one country, another form can be
added later.
The remaining selections on this

menu are out out of scope.
Select country of residence.
Indicate whether the foreign tax was actually paid

during the tax year (paid) or if the tax was billed in
one year but paid in another (accrued). A taxpayer
using the cash basis can choose to use either the
cash or accrual method to determine the foreign tax
credit. However, if the accrual method is chosen, the
taxpayer must continue to use the accrual method
for the foreign tax credit on all future returns.
G-3
Form 1116 Foreign Tax Credit (continued)
Enter the gross INCOME of this category type in both places (not the tax). Enter income from
this category type only, not total income. Do not enter any income excluded by Form 2555 in
the first gross income box. Include any income excluded by Form 2555 in the second gross Select the country that
income box, but only if that income is of the category selected (passive or general income) imposed the tax.
If your gross foreign source income (including income excluded

on Form 2555 or Form 2555-EZ) does not exceed $5,000, you
can allocate all of your interest expense to U.S. source income.
Otherwise, deductible home mortgage interest (including points and
qualified mortgage insurance premiums) is apportioned using a
gross income method.
Click on the itemized

amounts boxes to
enter taxes paid in
Enter the date the tax
foreign currency in the
was paid or accrued.
appropriate category.
Generally, you must enter the amount of foreign taxes, in both the
foreign currency denomination(s) and as converted into U.S. dollars,
that relate to the category of income checked (Passive or General
limited income).
Enter the taxes paid

(in U.S. dollars) in the
appropriate category.
G-4
Child and Dependent Care Credit Expenses
Probe/Action: To determine if a taxpayer qualifies for the Credit for Child and Dependent Care Expenses,
ask the taxpayer for information from the decision tree on the next page.
Who is a qualifying person?

A qualifying child who was under the age of 13 when the expenses were incurred
and for whom a dependency exemption can be claimed, see caution 1 below.
Any person who was incapable of self-care whom the taxpayer can claim as a
dependent or could've claimed as a dependent except that the person had gross
income of more than $4,050 or filed a joint return or that the taxpayer or spouse,
if married filing jointly, could be claimed as a dependent on someone elses 2017
return.
A spouse who was physically or mentally incapable of self-care.
The qualifying person must live with the taxpayer more than 1/2 the year.
Incapable of self-care - Can't dress, clean, or feed themselves. Also persons who
must have constant attention to prevent them from injuring themselves or others.
See Publication 17, Child and Dependent Care Credit for special rules regarding
divorced or separated parents or parents who live apart.
Qualified work-related expenses
Expenses must be paid for the care of the qualifying person to allow the taxpayer
and spouse, if married, to work or look for work.
The care includes the costs of services for the qualifying persons well-being and
protection.
Expenses to attend kindergarten or a higher grade aren't an expense for care.
Expenses for summer day-camp are qualifying, but those for overnight camp aren't.
*Refer to the tables on page C-3 for the rules governing who may be claimed as a dependent.
Caution: Only the custodial parent may claim the child and dependent care credit even if the childs exemption is being
claimed by the non-custodial parent under the rules for divorced & separated parents.
Caution: If Dependent Care Benefits are listed in Box 10 of a W2, then the taxpayer MUST complete Form 2441. If Form
2441 isn't completed, the Box 10 amount is added to Line 7 of the 1040 as taxable wages.
Note: If the qualifying child turned 13 during the tax year, the qualifying expenses include amounts incurred for the child
while under age 13 when the care was provided.
G-5
Credit for Child & Dependent Care Expenses
Decision Tree
Figure
Can Can the
YouA.Claim You Child
Claim and
the Credit?
Dependent Care Credit
Start Here
Was the care for one or more qualifying persons? No

See prior page for definition.
Yes
1
Did you have earned income during the year? Refer to the Earned No
Income Table in the Earned Income Credit tab.
Yes
1
Did you pay the expenses to allow you to work or look for work? No
See prior page for qualifying expenses.
Yes
Were your payments made to someone you or your spouse could Yes
claim as a dependent?
No
Were your payments made to your spouse or to the parent of your
Yes
child who is your qualifying person? Answer No if your qualifying
child is a disabled person over age 13.
No
Were your payments made to your child who was under the age of Yes
19 at the end of the year?
No
No
Are you single? Are you filing a joint return?
Yes
Yes No
No
Do you meet the requirements
to be considered unmarried?
Yes
Yes
Do you know the care providers name,
address, and identifying number?
No
No
Did you make a reasonable effort to get this
information? (See Due diligence.)
Yes
Did you have only one qualifying person and Yes

exclude or deduct at least $3,000 of dependent
care benefits? 3
No
You CAN claim the child and dependent You CAN'T claim the child
care credit. Fill out Form 2441 and dependent care credit.2
1
This also applies to your spouse. However, your spouse is treated as having earned income for any month that he
or she is a full-time student, or physically or mentally not able to care for himself or herself. (Your spouse also must
live with you for more than half the year.)
2
If you had expenses that met the requirements for 2016, except that you didn't pay them until 2017, you may be
able
1
Thistoalso
claim those
applies to yourexpenses in your
spouse, unless 2017.
spouse was disabled or a full-time student.
3
If 2two or more, the amount you can exclude or deduct is limited to $5,000.
If you had expenses that met the requirements for 2004, except that you did not pay them until 2005, you may be able to claim those expenses in 2005. See
Expenses not paid until the following year under How To Figure the Credit.
G-6
G-6
Form 2441 Credit for Child and Dependent Care
Expenses
Taxslayer Navigation: Federal Section>Deductions>Credits>Child Care Credit>1040 view line 49 or keyword "2441"
Next, enter the total amount of qualified Hint: The tax return can't be filed
Add a Child Care Provider.
expenses paid for each dependent. Select electronically without a valid Employer
edit next to the appropriate dependent. Identification Number or Social Security
Remember, it's possible for one qualifying Number for the Daycare Provider.
person to have 0 expenses and another
qualifying person have expenses exceeding
$3,000. The $6,000 limit applies.
Caution: Only check the "qualifying person had no expenses" box if the person is both a qualifying person for the credit
and had no expenses.
G-7
Form 2441 Credit for Child and Dependent Care
Expenses-(continued)
Form 2441 Page 2: Caution: Only enter dependent care

If the taxpayer or spouse is a full-time student or disabled benefits not reported on a W-2
enter $250 per month ($500 per month if more than one
qualifying person was cared for during the year).
If the person also worked during the month, use the
higher of $250 (or $500) or his or her actual earned
income for that month.
Note: Foreign earned income and housing exclusion, and Medicaid Waiver payments are subtracted from the wages listed
on Line 7 when figuring the credit. Subtract any amount earned while incarcerated or on work release.
Note: Both spouses must have earned income in order to claim the credit. Complete the additions to income for taxpayer if
the taxpayer or spouse was either a full time student or disabled.
G-8
Retirement Savings Contributions Credit
Decision Tree
To determine if a taxpayer qualifies for the Credit for Qualified Retirement Savings
Contributions, review the return information and ask the taxpayer the following:
Did you make a voluntary contribution or

deferral to an IRA or other qualified plan
for 2017?1 NO
YES
Is AGI $31,000 or less ($46,500 if head of
household, $62,000 if married filing jointly)? NO
Not qualified
YES
for credit
Were you born before January 2, 2000?
NO
YES
Are you being claimed as a dependent on
someone elses tax return for 2017? YES
NO
Were you a full-time student2 during 2017?
YES
NO
Qualified for credit
1
Plans that qualify are listed in the Other Credits chapter of Publication 17. Answer yes if the taxpayer will make a qualifying IRA contribution for tax
year 2017 by April 17, 2018.
2
You were a student if during any part of 5 calendar months of 2017 you:
- Were enrolled as a full-time student at a school, or
- Took a full-time, on-farm training course given by a school or a state, county, or local government agency.
A school includes technical, trade and mechanical schools. It does not include on-the job training courses, correspondence schools, or schools
offering courses only through the Internet.
Important Reminders for Retirement Savings Contributions Credit

Be sure to look at the taxpayers Form(s) W-2. An entry in box 12 or an X in the Retirement box is an indicator
that the taxpayer may be eligible for this credit. A full description of all codes used in box 12 can be found in
Instructions for Forms W-2 and W-3.
An entry in box 14 on the W-2 may also indicate a contribution to a state retirement system. Caution: If these
are treated as employer contributions they aren't eligible for the credit. See Form W-2 Instructions.
When using tax software, remember to key in all entries as they appear on the Form W-2.
A contribution to a traditional or Roth IRA qualifies for this credit, but may not appear on any taxpayer document.
Remember to review the expenses section on page 2 of the Intake/Interview & Quality Review Sheet and ask
taxpayers if they made any IRA contributions.
Some distributions reduce the eligible contributions for this credit. In addition to distributions for the current year
as shown on Forms 1099-R, be sure to ask about distributions in the prior two years and up to the due date of
the return.
See the next page for a list of distributions that don't reduce the eligible contributions for this credit.
Form 8880 is used to claim this credit.
If taxpayer (or spouse if MFJ) is a full-time student, be sure to mark it in the Personal Information Section. This
credit is not available to full-time students.
G-9
Retirement Savings Contributions Credit (continued)
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Deductions>Credits>Retirement Savings Credit, 1040 View
Line 51, or Keyword "8880"
Open the Retirement Savings Contributions Credits screen if the taxpayer meets eligibility criteria and any of the following
are true:
1. The taxpayer(s) make a traditional IRA or a ROTH IRA contribution before the filing deadline.
2. The taxpayer or spouses Form W-2 includes:
- box 12 entries of D, E, F, G, H, S, AA, BB
- box 14 amounts that are voluntary retirement contributions or marked as Qualifies for Form 8880"
Verify total contribution amounts with the taxpayer. Total IRA contributions cannot exceed lesser of total compensation or
the annual limit. See Tab E for limits.
Caution: Internal Revenue Code section 414(h)(2) provides that any plan established by a governmental unit, where the
contributions of employing units are designated employee contributions, but the employer picks up the contributions,
the contributions are treated as employer contributions, not voluntary contributions made by the employee.They do not
qualify for the credit.
Enter as a negative number any current

Note: Certain distributions received after 2014
year distributions reported as income on the
and before the due date (including extensions)
tax return that should not be included in the
of your 2017 tax return from any of the following
calculation of the credit (for example, military
types of plans are subtracted from contributions:
pensions). See the list on the following page
Traditional or Roth IRAs for other examples.
401(k), 403(b), governmental 457, 501(c)(18)
(D), SEP, or SIMPLE plans
Qualified retirement plans (including the federal
Thrift Savings Plan).
Distributions entered on Form 1099-R will be
calculated by the software. Any other distributions
from the 2 prior years or between January 1 and
the tax filing deadline must be entered manually
where indicated.
G-10
Retirement Savings Contributions Credit (continued)
Don't include any of the following as distributions:
Military pensions
Distributions not taxable as the result of a rollover or a trustee-to-trustee transfer
Distributions from your IRA (other than a Roth IRA) rolled over or converted to your Roth IRA
Loans from a qualified employer plan treated as a distribution
Distributions of excess contributions or deferrals (and income allocable to such contributions or deferrals)
Distributions of contributions made during a tax year and returned (with any income allocable to such contributions)
on or before the due date (including extensions) for that tax year
Distributions of dividends paid on stock held by an employee stock ownership plan under section 404(k)
Distributions that are taxable as the result of an in-plan rollover to your designated Roth account
Distributions from an inherited IRA by a nonspousal beneficiary
The credit is calculated using the following percentages:
If AGI is- And your filing status is-

Over- But not over- Married filing jointly Head of household Single, Married filing
separately, or Qualifying
widow(er)
--- $18,500 .5 .5 .5
$18,500 $20,000 .5 .5 .2
$20,000 $27,750 .5 .5 .1
$27,750 $30,000 .5 .2 .1
$30,000 $31,000 .5 .1 .1
$31,000 $37,000 .5 .1 .0
$37,000 $40,000 .2 .1 .0
$40,000 $46,500 .1 .1 .0
$46,500 $62,000 .1 .0 .0
$62,000 --- .0 .0 .0
G-11
Child Tax Credit
This is a credit intended to reduce the tax. This part of the credit isn't refundable. The credit is up to $1,000 per
qualifying child.
Qualifying child:
1. Under age 17 at the end of the tax year.
2. A U.S. citizen or U.S. national* or resident alien of the United States. See the ITIN Returns tab.
3. Claimed as your dependent.**
4. Your:
a. son or daughter, adopted child, stepchild, eligible foster child, or a descendant of any of them
b. brother, sister, half brother, half sister, stepbrother, stepsister, or a descendant of any of them (for example,
your niece or nephew)
5. Didn't provide over half of his or her own support.
6. Lived with the taxpayer for more than half of the tax year. (See Interview Tips for Child Tax Credit for Exception
to Time Lived with You section if the child didn't live with the taxpayer for more than half the year.)
* National is an individual who, although not a U.S. citizen, owes his or her allegiance to the United States. U.S. nationals include
American Samoans and Northern Mariana Islanders who chose to become U.S. nationals instead of U.S. citizens.
**Refer to the tables on page C-3 for the rules governing who may be claimed as a dependent.
Caution: If the taxpayer is able to claim the dependent under the rules for divorced and separated parents, he or she is
the only parent entitled to claim the child tax credit or additional child tax credit.
Additional Child Tax Credit General Eligibility

Note: Make sure the taxpayers credit hasn't been disallowed previously. If previously disallowed see Form 8862 in the EITC tab.
The child tax credit is generally a nonrefundable credit; however, certain taxpayers may
be entitled to a refundable additional child tax credit.
Taxpayers with more than $3,000 of taxable earned income may be eligible for the additional child tax
credit if they have at least one qualifying child.
Taxpayers with three or more children may also be eligible for additional child tax
credit regardless of their income.
Schedule 8812 is used to calculate the allowable additional child tax credit.
See Tab C, Exemptions/Dependency, and the worksheet in the instruction booklet for additional information
(including definitions and special rules relating to an adopted child, foster child, or qualifying child of more
than one person).
Note: No credit or refund for an overpayment for a taxable year shall be made to a taxpayer before the 15th day of
the second month following the close of the taxable year (generally February 15th) if the taxpayer claimed the EITC or
additional child tax credit on the tax return.
Note: Taxpayers claiming the Child Tax Credit must now have a valid identification number by the due date of the tax
return (including extensions). Taxpayers may not file an amended return to retroactively claim the additional child tax credit
for a qualifying child if a valid TIN for the child is issued after the due date of the tax return.
Note: You must claim the child as a dependent on your return to qualify for the Child Tax Credit
Note: If you claim the foreign earned income exclusion, the housing exclusion, or the housing deduction on Form 2555 or
Form 2555-EZ, you can't claim the additional child tax credit.
Note: See Disallowance of Certain Refundable Credits in the EIC tab if the taxpayer received a letter saying they had to
complete Form 8862.
G-12
Child Tax Credit
(Remember to apply the steps for each child.)
Is this child your son, daughter, adopted child, stepchild, foster If YES, go to Step 2.
step
child, brother, sister, half brother, half sister, stepbrother, If NO, you can't claim the child
1 stepsister, or a descendant of any of them (for example, your tax credit for this child. STOP if the taxpayer has
grandchild, niece, or nephew)? A descendant is of any generation. no other children.
step Is this child under age 17 at the end of the tax year? If YES, go to Step 3.
If NO, you can't claim the child
2 tax credit for this child. STOP if the taxpayer has
no other children.
step Did the child provide over half of his or her own support for the tax If NO, go to Step 4.
year? If YES, you can't claim the child
3 tax credit for this child. STOP if the taxpayer has
no other children.
step Did the child live with you for more than half of the tax year? If the If YES, go to Step 5.
child didn't live with you for the required time, see the following If NO, you can't claim the child
4 notes below the chart: tax credit for this child. STOP if the taxpayer has
Exception to Time Lived with You no other children.
Kidnapped Child
Children of Divorced or Separated Parents or Parents who
live apart.
step Is this child a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or resident alien of the If YES, go to Step 6.
United States? If NO, you can't claim the child
5 Note: A national is an individual who, although not a U.S. citizen, tax credit for this child. STOP if the taxpayer has
owes his or her allegiance to the United States. U.S. nationals no other children.
include American Samoans and Northern Mariana Islanders who
chose to become U.S. nationals instead of U.S. citizens. See ITIN
Return tab for definition of Resident Alien.
Questions: Who Must Use Publication 972?

step Are you excluding income from Puerto Rico or are you filing If NO, go to Step 7.
Form 2555, Form 2555-EZ (relating to foreign earned income), If YES, you must use Publication
6 or Form 4563, Exclusion of Income for Bona Fide Residents of 972 to figure the credit.
American Samoa?
step Are you claiming any of the following credits? If NO, use the Child Tax Credit
7 Adoption Credit, a residential energy credit, Form 5695, Part Worksheet to figure the credit.
II; Mortgage Interest credit, Form 8396; District of Columbia If YES, you must use Publication
first-time homebuyer credit, Form 8859. 972 to figure the credit.
Exception to Time Lived with You Children of Divorced or Separated Parents

A child is considered to have lived with you for all of the current tax year A child will be treated as being the qualifying child of his or her
if the child was born or died in 2017 and your home was this childs home noncustodial parent if all of the following apply:
for the entire time he or she was alive. Temporary absences for special The parents were divorced or legally separated or lived apart at all
circumstances, such as for school, vacation, medical care, military times during the last 6 months of the current tax year.
service, or detention in a juvenile facility, count as time lived at home. The child received over half of his or her support for the current tax
year from the parents.
Kidnapped Child The child was in the custody of one or both of the parents for more
A kidnapped child is considered to have lived with you for all of the than half of the current tax year.
current tax year if: A decree of divorce or separate maintenance or written separation
In the year the kidnapping occurred, the kidnapped child is agreement that applies to the current tax year provides that (a) the
presumed by law enforcement to have been taken by someone who noncustodial parent can claim the child as a dependent, or (b) the
isn't a family member, and custodial parent will sign a written declaration that he or she won't
The kidnapped child lived with the taxpayer for more than half of claim the child as a dependent for the current tax year.
the portion of the year prior to the kidnapping. The custodial parent signs Form 8332 or similar statement that
he or she won't claim the child as a dependent in the current tax
Modified Adjusted Gross Income Limits year. If the divorce decree or separation agreement went into effect
Married filing jointly - $110,000 before 2009, the non custodial parent may be able to attach certain
Single, head of household, or qualifying widow(er) - $75,000 pages of the decree or agreement instead of Form 8332.
Married filing separately - $55,000
Note: Current tax year reference applies to tax year 2017.
G-13
Credit for the Elderly or the Disabled
Decision Tree
Use the following chart to determine if the taxpayer is eligible for the Credit for the Elderly or the Disabled:
Figure A. Are You a Qualified Individual?
Did you live with your spouse Yes
at any time during the year? Were you married at the end of the tax year? Start here
Answer No if you qualify to
be considered unmarried and
file as Head of Household. No
No
Yes Yes
Are you filing a joint No Are you a U.S. citizen or resident alien?1
return with your spouse?
Yes
Yes
Were you 65 or older at the end of
the tax year?
You aren't a qualified No
individual and can't You are a qualified
take the credit for the No Are you retired on permanent and individual and may be
elderly or the disabled. total disability? able to take the credit
for the elderly or the
Yes disabled unless your
income exceeds the
Yes
Did you reach mandatory retirement limits in Figure B.
age before this year?2
No
No Yes
Did you receive taxable disability
benefits this year?
1
If you were a nonresident alien at any time during the tax year and were married to a U.S. citizen or resident alien at the end of the tax year,
see U.S. Citizen or Resident Alien under Qualified Individual. If you and your spouse choose to treat you as a U.S. resident alien, answer yes
to this question.
2
Mandatory retirement age is the age set by your employer at which you would have been required to retire, had you not become disabled.
Figure B. Income Limits
THEN you generally can't take the credit if...
OR the total of your nontaxable social
security and other nontaxable pension
Your adjusted gross income (AGI)* annuities or disability income is equal
IF you are . . . is . . . to or more than . . .
single, head of household, $17,500 $5,000
or qualifying widow(er) with
dependent child
married filing a joint return and $25,000 $7,500
both spouses qualify in Figure A
married filing a joint return $20,000 $5,000
and only one spouse qualifies in
Figure A
married filing a separate return $12,500 $3,750
and you lived apart from your
spouse for all of 2017
* AGI is the amount on Form 1040A, line 22, or Form 1040, line 38.
Tax Software Hint: Be sure to include the taxpayers total social security benefits, regardless of the taxability, to ensure the
correct calculation of the credit. The software does not calculate this credit automatically. If the taxpayer appears to qualify for
the credit, refer to the navigation path above and answer the questions.
G-14
Entering the Credit for the Elderly or the Disabled
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Deductions>Credits Menu>Credit for the Elderly or Disabled; Form
1040 view Line 54, Box C; or Keyword: Schedule R
Indicate whether the taxpayer

is 65 or older, or under 65 and
retired on permanent and total
disability
Check the box if the statements above regarding the taxpayer's disability are true. Not checking the
box does not prevent the taxpayer from claiming the credit. However, they must obtain a physicians
statement for their records. See the Instructions for Schedule R for a sample statement.
G-15
Entering the Credit for the Elderly or the Disabled
(continued)
Enter the TPs taxable disability income, if any,

(such as from Form 1099-R) where indicated.
Enter pension, annuity or disability benefits

excluded from income as indicated. Do not enter
Social Security benefits. Enter Social Security
income in the Social Security SSA-1099 screen in
TaxSlayer.
G-16
H. Other Taxes,
Payments and ACA
Other Taxes and Payments
Hint: TaxSlayer provides all the forms and schedules you need in order to figure and report these taxes, and in
most cases, performs the calculations.
Self-Employment Tax
Entered automatically from Schedule SE. TaxSlayer calculates the amount using the entries from Schedule C.
Unreported Social Security and Medicare Tax
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Income>Wages>Add or edit W-2>Unreported tips; 1040 View Line 7; or
Keyword W2. If unreported because less than $20/mo PLUS Form 4137: Federal Section>Other Taxes>Tax on
Unreported Tip Income; 1040 View Line 58; or Keyword 4137
Comes from Form 4137 Tip income not reported on Form W-2.
Additional Tax on IRAs and Other Qualified Plans
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Other Taxes> >Tax on Unreported Tip Income; 1040 View Line 59; or Keyword
5329
A 10% penalty is calculated on Form 5329 for early withdrawal before age 59-1/2. If an exception applies, enter the code
and the amount on line 2 of Form 5329. See next page.
Household Employment Taxes (out of scope)
Repayment of First-Time Homebuyer Credit Form 5405
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Other Taxes> >First-time Homebuyer Repayment; 1040 View Line 60b; or
Keyword 5405
2008 homebuyers who received the First Time Homebuyer Credit ($7,500 loan) started repayments in 2010 and must
enter the repayment on page 2 of Form 1040, Other Taxes section or complete Form 5405, Part II if required. (See 5405
instructions for when it is required.)
H-1
Other Taxes and payments (continued)
Note: For those with HSA certification only. Additional taxes for HSA distributions not used for qualified medical
expenses may be applicable unless age 65, disabled, or deceased See Form 8889. All other taxes on this line are out-
ofscope
When using TaxSlayer

enter the amount not subject
to additional tax. Select the
appropriate exception from the
drop down menu.
Exception codes and explanations for early distributions from IRA or retirement plans:
(Do not rely on this list alone. See Publication 590-B, Distributions from Individual Retirement Arrangements
(IRAs), for rules and details pertaining to each exception.)
No Exception
01 Qualified retirement plan distributions (doesnt apply to IRAs) if you separated from service in or after the year
you reach age 55 (age 50 for qualified public safety employees).
02 Distributions made as part of a series of substantially equal periodic payments (made at least annually) for your
life (or life expectancy) or the joint lives (or joint life expectancies) of you and your designated beneficiary (if
from an employer plan, payments must begin after separation from service).
03 Distributions due to total and permanent disability. Does not apply if the disability occurred after the distribution.
04 Distributions due to death (doesnt apply to modified endowment contracts).
05 Qualified retirement plan distributions up to (1) the amount you paid for unreimbursed medical expenses during
the year minus (2) 10% of your adjusted gross income for the year.
06 Qualified retirement plan distributions made to an alternate payee under a qualified domestic relations order
(doesnt apply to IRAs).
07 IRA distributions made to unemployed individuals for health insurance premiums. Footnote 1
08 IRA distributions made qualified for higher education expenses.
09 IRA distributions made for purchase of a first home, up to $10,000.
10 Distributions due to an IRS levy on the qualified retirement plan.
11 Qualified distributions to reservists while serving on active duty for at least 180 days.
12 Other (see Other, below). Also, enter this code if more than one exception applies. * Footnote 2
H-2
Other Taxes and payments (continued)
Footnote 1
07 Medical insurance for yourself, your spouse, and your dependents (no 10% of AGI reduction). All f the following
conditions must apply:
You lost your job.
You received unemployment compensation paid under any federal or state law for 12 consecutive weeks because you
lost your job.
You receive the distributions during either the year you received the unemployment compensation or the following
year.
You receive the distributions no later than 60 days after you have been reemployed.
Footnote 2
*Other: Distributions incorrectly indicated as early distributions by code 1, J, or S in box 7 of Form
1099-R. Include on line 2 the amount you received when you were age 59 1/2 or older. See Form
5329 Instructions or Pub. 590-B for additional exceptions. For additional exceptions that apply to
annuities, see Pub. 575.
Note: For those with HSA certification only. Additional taxes for HSA distributions not used for qualified medical
expenses may be applicable unless age 65, disabled, or deceased. See Form 8889. All other taxes on this line are out of
scope.
H-3
AFFORDABLE CARE ACT (ACA)
Select Yes if anyone in the tax household
had Minimum Essential Coverage (MEC)
at any time during the year. (See Types of
Approaching the ACA Minimum Essential Coverage chart, later
in this tab).
For each person in the tax household:
Did this person have coverage all year?
1 If YES: In ACA Worksheet, check Full for that person. (See software image on next page)
If Full is checked for every person on the return, TaxWise will check the box on Form 1040, page 2.
Is this person eligible for an exemption for any month without coverage?
2 If YES: In ACA Worksheet, check Exm and complete Form 8965.
Does this person have no coverage AND no exemptionAnswer

for anyYes
month during
if the the year?
taxpayer received Form
3 1095-A
If YES: In ACA Worksheet, check each month with no coverage AND
be calculated for that person for that month.
for any part
no exemption. of the
A shared year.
responsibility payment will
If this person has no coverage AND no exemption in EVERY month of the year, check None.
Did this person have qualifying health plan coverage purchased through the Marketplace?
4 If YES: In ACA Worksheet, check Mkt and complete Form 8962.
Remember If the taxpayer applied for coverage via

Each person in the tax household should be screened individually to determine
the Marketplace but wasin which months
instead the person
enrolled
has coverage, is eligible for an exemption, or is subject to
in aMedicaid,
shared responsibility
answer No.payment.
A tax return claiming zero personal exemptions (a dependent filing his or her own return) should not
complete the ACA Worksheet. The dependents coverage exemption or premium tax credit will be reported
A Yes answer willon the return
require of of
entry theinformation
taxpayer who properly
from Form claims
1095-A.his See
or her dependency
Premium Tax exemption.
Credit section later in this tab for help
entering Form 1095-A.
H-4
Types of Minimum Essential Coverage
Minimum essential coverage means health care coverage under any of the following programs. It does not, however,
include coverage consisting solely of excepted benefits. Excepted benefits include stand-alone vision and dental plans,
workers compensation coverage, and coverage limited to a specified disease or illness.
Employer-sponsored coverage:
Group health insurance coverage for employees under
A governmental plan, such as the Federal Employees Health Benefit program,
A plan or coverage offered in the small or large group market within a state, or
A grandfathered health plan offered in a group market
A self-insured health plan for employees,
COBRA coverage,
Retiree coverage, or
Coverage under an expatriate health plan for employees and related individuals.
Individual health coverage:

Health insurance you purchase directly from an insurance company
Health insurance you purchase through the Marketplace
Health insurance provided through a student health plan
Catastrophic coverage, or
Coverage under an expatriate health plan for non-employees such as students and missionaries
Coverage under government-sponsored programs:

Medicare Part A coverage,
Medicare Advantage plans,
Most Medicaid coverage,*
Childrens Health Insurance Program (CHIP) coverage,
Most types of TRICARE coverage,
Comprehensive health care programs offered by the Department of Veterans Affairs,
Health coverage provided to Peace Corps volunteers,
Department of Defense Nonappropriated Fund Health Benefits Program,
Refugee Medical Assistance, or
Coverage through a Basic Health Program (BHP) standard health plan.
Other coverage:
Certain foreign coverage,
Certain coverage for business owners, or
Coverage recognized by HHS as minimum essential coverage.**
*Medicaid programs that provide limited benefits generally dont qualify as minimum essential coverage; however, HHS
will provide a hardship exemption to individuals with certain types of limited-benefit Medicaid coverage.
**Plans recognized as minimum essential coverage are listed at: www.cms.gov/CCIIO/Programs-and-Initiatives-

Health-Insurance-Market-Reforms/minimum-essential-coverage.html, scroll down and click on the link for the list of
plans. approved
No proof of coverage is needed. Oral statement from the taxpayer is acceptable, unless normal due diligence leads you
to believe the taxpayers statement is incorrect.
H-5
xxxx
xxxx
xxxx
Use the Add a New Household Member button

only to add a family member for whom you must
pay an SRP or claim an exemption. This may
include a person the taxpayer can, but does not,
claim as a dependent.
Months Insured Select Yes if everyone in the tax household was insured for all 12 months. If No, select the number
of months each individual had coverage. Individuals are treated as having MEC for a month as long as they were covered
for at least one day during that month.
H-6
Then indicate which months the individual had coverage:
H-7
Exemptions: Overview
Exemptions: Where do I start?

Does anyone in the tax household already have an exemption in hand from the Marketplace?
STEP
Marketplace exemptions require an application. If a person applied for an exemption through the
1 Marketplace (or if they were granted an exemption because they were denied Medicaid coverage in a
state that did not expand Medicaid), they should have received an Exemption Certificate Number (ECN)
from the Marketplace. It is a 6 or 7 digit alphanumeric code.
Is household or gross income under the filing threshold?
STEP If yes, everyone on the tax return is exempt from the coverage requirement, and there is no need to
2 consider additional exemptions. Line 7 on Form 8965 is used to claim an income-based exemption. See
Household Exemptions for Income Below Filing Threshold section later in this tab for more information
about this exemption.
If the tax household does not qualify for an exemption under Step 2, does any individual qualify
STEP
for an exemption that can be claimed directly on the tax return?
3 If yes, the exemption code is entered on Form 8965, Part III. (Refer to the Types of Coverage
Exemptions chart later in this tab).
For any uninsured individual that does not qualify under Step 2 or 3, does any individual in the
STEP tax household qualify for an exemption from the Marketplace?
4 If yes, direct the person to the Marketplace for additional help. Enter pending as shown on the
following page if the Marketplace has not processed the application for exemption before the return is
filed. A tax return with a pending exemption can still be e-filed. The IRS may follow up with a taxpayer
directly on a pending submission if the Marketplace does not approve the exemption.
Enter the dependents income ONLY if their gross income exceeds the filing threshold.
The software will calculate household income for the filing threshold exemption.
TaxSlayer will also use the appropriate dependents MAGI for SRP and PTC purposes.
H-8
2017 Federal Tax Filing Requirement Thresholds
Dependents
Use this chart to help you determine if a dependent you claimed on your return must file his or her own tax return. If the
dependent is required to file a tax return because his or her income meets the filing threshold, the dependent's MAGI must
be included in household income for purposes of Form 8965, even if you elect to report that dependent's income on Form
8814. Do not include a dependent's MAGI in household income if the dependent's income is below the filing threshold,
even if he or she chooses to file a return for another reason.
In this chart, unearned income includes taxable interest, ordinary dividends, capital gain distributions, unemployment
compensation, taxable social security benefits, pensions, annuities, and distributions of unearned income from a trust.
Earned income includes salaries, wages, tips, professional fees, and taxable scholarship and fellowship grants. Gross
income is the total of your unearned and earned income.
Single dependents. Was your dependent either age 65 or older or blind?

No. Your dependent must file a return if any of the following apply.
1. Your dependents unearned income was over $1,050.
2. Your dependents earned income was over $6,350.
3. Your dependents gross income was more than the larger of
a. $1,050, or
b. Your dependents earned income (up to $6,000) plus $350.
Yes. Your dependent must file a return if any of the following apply.
1. Your dependents unearned income was over $2,600 ($4,150 if 65 or older and blind).
2. Your dependents earned income was over $7,900 ($9,450 if 65 or older and blind).
a. $2,600 ($4,150 if 65 or older and blind) or
b. Your dependents earned income (up to $6,000) plus $1,900 ($3,450 if 65 or older and blind).
Married dependents. Was your dependent either age 65 or older or blind?

No. Your dependent must file a return if any of the following apply.
1. Your dependents unearned income was over $1,050.
2. Your dependents earned income was over $6,350.
3. Your dependents gross income was at least $5 and his or her spouse files a separate return and itemizes
deductions.
a. $1,050, or
b. Your dependents earned income (up to $6,000) plus $350.
Yes. Your dependent must file a return if any of the following apply.
1. Your dependents unearned income was over $2,300 ($3,550 if 65 or older and blind).
2. Your dependents earned income was over $7,600 ($8,850 if 65 or older and blind).
3. Your dependents gross income was at least $5 and his or her spouse files a separate return and itemizes
deductions.
a. $2,300 ($3,550 if 65 or older and blind), or
b. Your dependents earned income (up to $6,000) plus $1,600 ($2,850 if 65 or older and blind).
Note: For children under age 18 and certain older children, unearned income over $2,100 is taxed at the parents rate if the parents
rate is higher than the childs. For this purpose, unearned income includes all taxable income other than earned income, such as
taxable interest, ordinary dividends, capital gains, rents, royalties, etc. It also includes taxable social security benefits, pension and
annuity income, taxable scholarship and fellowship grants not reported on Form W-2, unemployment compensation, alimony, and
income received as the beneficiary of a trust. If the childs unearned income is more than $2,100 and the child is required to file a tax
return, Form 8615 must be used to figure the childs tax. Form 8615 is out of scope.
H-9
Caution: Use this screen to claim the Coverage is Unaffordable exemption if you have determined that no other
exemption applies. See the Types of Coverage Exemptions chart later in this tab. Otherwise, Continue past this page. If
this exemption applies, it must be entered as shown on the Claiming Exemptions page (later in this tab) for each person
and month it can be claimed.
Entering Exemptions in TaxSlayer

If the software determines that the household or gross income (filing threshold) exemption applies, select No and continue.
Otherwise, if any individual in the household qualifies for an exemption, either through the Marketplace or claimed on the
tax return, select Yes:
Tip: If the filing threshold exemption applies, it

applies to the entire family for the whole year and
no other exemption is needed.
H-10
Exemptions:Exemptions:
Form 8965, Part
FormII 8965, Part II
Household Exemptions for Income Below Filing Threshold
Household Exemptions for Income Below Filing Threshold
Exemption Type Details
Exemption Type Details
Household income below filing
Household income below filing threshold Household income is the sum of the modified
Household income is the sum of the modified adjusted
adjustedgross income
gross (MAGI)
income from the
(MAGI)
(Form 8965, Line 7a)
threshold (Form 8965, Line 7) tax return and the MAGI of all dependents required to file a tax return.
from the tax return and the MAGI of all dependents required to file a tax return.Use the Filing
Requirements for Children and Other Dependents chart (in this tab)
Use the Filing Requirements for Children and Other Dependents chart (in this to determine
whether the dependent
tab) to determine is required
whether to file his or
the dependent her own tax
is required return.
to file his or her own tax
return.
MAGI = Adjusted Gross + Tax-Exempt + Excluded Foreign

Income (AGI) Interest Income
* International certification
Form 1040, Line 37 Form 1040, Line 8b only
Form 2555,
Form 2555-EZ
Gross income below filing threshold Gross Income means all income received in the form of money, goods,
Gross income
(Form 8965,below filing threshold
Line 7) Gross income
property, andmeans all income
services received
that is not in the
exempt form
from ofsee
tax, money, goods,ofproperty,
definition gross and
(Form 8965, Line 7b) services
incomethat is not exempt from tax, see definition of gross income on page A-1.
below.
Do
Donot
notinclude
include income
income of any
of any dependents
dependents
If either exemption applies, stop.

There is no need to consider other exemptions for individual members of the household.
If either exemption applies, stop.
There is no need to consider other exemptions for individual members of the household.
Must file a return if
Filing Status Age* gross income** exceeds
Single Under 65 $10,400
65 or older Must file a return if
$11,950
Filing Status Age gross income exceeds
Head of Household Under 65 $13,400
Single Under 65 65 or older $10,300 $14,950
65 or older $11,850
Married Filing Jointly*** Under 65 (both spouses) $20,800
Head of Household Under 65 $13,250
65 or older (one spouse) $22,050
65 or older $14,800
65 or older (both spouses) $23,300
Married Filing Jointly Under 65 (both spouses) $20,600
Married Filing65
Separately
or older (oneAny age
spouse) $21,850 $4,050
65 or older (both spouses)
Qualifying Widow(er) Under 65 $23,100 $16,750
Married Filing Separately Any age 65 or older $4,000 $18,000
Qualifying Widow(er) with Under 65 $16,600
* IfDependent
you were born on January 1, 1953,
Children 65 oryou are considered to be
older age 65 at the end of 2017. (If your spouse died in 2017 or
$17,850
if you are preparing a return for someone who died in 2017, see Pub. 501.)
**Gross
Gross income
income means
means all all
income
income youyou
received
received in the formform
in the of money, goods,
of money, property,
goods, and services
property, that isthat
and services not isnt
exempt from
exempt
tax, including
from any income
tax, including any incomefrom sources outsideoutside
from sources the United States States.
the United or from It
the saleincludes
also of your main homethe
gain from (even
saleif of
you canmain
your
exclude
home, partifor
even all can
you of it).exclude
Includepartonlyor
thealltaxable part of only
of it. Include social security
the taxable benefits
part of(Form
social1040, linebenefits
security 20b; Form 1040A,
(Form lineline 20b;
1040,
14b). 1040A,
Form Also include gains,It but
line 14b). alsonot losses,gains,
include reportedbut on
notForm
losses,8949 or Schedule
reported on FormD. Gross
8949 or income from a
Schedule D.business means,from a
Gross income
for example,
business the amount
means, on Schedule
for example, C, line
the amount on7,Schedule
or Schedule F, line
C, line 9. But,
7, or in figuring
Schedule gross
F, line income,
9. But, do notgross
in figuring reduce your do
income,
income
not reduceby any
yourlosses,
incomeincluding any lossincluding
by any losses, on Schedule C, line
any loss on7,Schedule
or Schedule F, line
C, line 9. Schedule F, line 9.
7, or
*** If you did not live with your spouse at the end of 2017 (or on the date your spouse died) and your gross income was at
least $4,050, you must file a return regardless of your age.
H-11
Claiming Exemptions
For all other exemptions, indicate the individual, the type of exemption (and Marketplace-issued certificate number, if
applicable) and the months of eligibility:
To enter an exemption for another individual on the

return, or to enter a second exemption for different
months for the same individual, click here.
H-12
Claiming Exemptions (continued)
Enter Pending if the Marketplace has not processed the application for exemption before the return is filed:
The exemption types on this screen are the

same exemption codes as the next page.
H-13
Types of Coverage Exemptions
This chart shows all of the coverage exemptions available for 2017, including information about where each can be obtained and the code that is to be
used on Form 8965 when you claim the exemption. If your coverage exemption was granted by the Marketplace, you will need to enter the Exemption
Certificate Number (ECN) provided by the Marketplace. For additional detail about the eligibility rules for the coverage exemptions that are claimed on
the tax return, see the Instructions for Form 8965.
G ranted b y C laimed C ode f or

C ov erage E xemp tion M ark etp lac e on tax E xemp tion
return
Income below the filing threshold Your gross income or your household income was less than your No Code
applicable minimum threshold for filing a tax return. See Part II
Coverage considered unaffordable The required contribution is more than 8.16% of your household
income A
S hort c ov erage gap You went without coverage for less than 3 consecutive months during the year. There
is a look-back rule for gaps of coverage at the start of the year. See the Instructions for Form 8965 for details. B
Citizens living abroad and certain noncitizens You were:

A U.S. citizen or resident who was physically present in a foreign country or countries for at least 330 full
days during any period of 12 consecutive months;
A U.S. citizen who was a bona fide resident of a foreign country or countries for an uninterrupted period
that includes an entire tax year;
A bona fide resident of a U.S. territory;
A resident alien who was a citizen or national of a foreign country with which the U.S. has an income
tax treaty with a nondiscrimination clause, and you were a bona fide resident of a foreign country for an
uninterrupted period that includes an entire tax year;
Not lawfully present in the U.S and not a U.S. citizen or U.S. national. For this purpose, an immigrant with
C
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status is not considered lawfully present and therefore qualifies
for this exemption. For more information about who is treated as lawfully present in the U.S. for purposes of this
coverage exemption, visit www.HealthCare.gov; or
A nonresident alien, including (1) a dual-status alien in the first year of U.S. residency and (2) a
nonresident alien or dual-status nonresident alien who elects to file a joint return with a U.S. spouse. This
exemption doesnt apply if you are a nonresident alien for 2017, but met certain presence requirements and
elected to be treated as a resident alien. For more information see Pub. 519.
Members of a health care sharing ministry You were a member of a health care sharing ministry.
D
Members of Indian tribes You were either a member of a Federally-recognized Indian tribe, including an
Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) Corporation Shareholder (regional or village), or you were
otherwise eligible for services through an Indian health care provider or the Indian Health Service.
* E
I nc arc eration You were in a jail, prison, or similar penal institution or correctional facility after the disposition
of charges. F
Aggregate self-only coverage considered unaffordable Two or more family members aggregate cost
of self-only employer-sponsored coverage was more than 8.16% of household income, as was the cost of any
available employer-sponsored coverage for the entire family.
G
Resident of a state that did not expand Medicaid Your household income was below 138% of the federal
poverty line for your family size and at any time in 2017 you resided in a state that didnt participate in the
Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act.
G
Member of tax household born or adopted during the year The months before and including the
month that an individual was added to your tax household by birth or adoption. You should claim this
exemption only if you are also claiming another exemption on your Form 8965.
H
Member of tax household died during the year -- The months after the month that a member of your
tax household died during the year. You should claim this exemption only if you are also claiming another
exemption on your Form 8965
H
Members of certain religious sects The marketplace determined that you are a member of a recognized Need ECN
religious sect. See Part I
Ineligible for Medicaid based on a states decision not to expand Medicaid coverage The marketplace
Need ECN
found that you would have been determined ineligible for Medicaid solely because the state in which you
resided didnt participate in Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act.
See Part I
General hardship The Marketplace determined that you experienced a hardship that prevented you from Need ECN
obtaining coverage under a qualified health plan. See Part I
Coverage considered unaffordable based on projected income The Marketplace determined that you Need ECN
didnt have access to coverage that is considered affordable based on your projected household income. See Part I
Certain Medicaid programs that are not minimum essential coverage The Marketplace determined that
you were (1) enrolled in Medicaid coverage provided to a pregnant woman that is not recognized as minimum
essential coverage; (2) enrolled in Medicaid coverage provided to a medically needy individual (also known as Need ECN
Spend-down Medicaid or Share-of-Cost Medicaid) that is not recognized as minimum essential coverage; or See Part I
(3) enrolled in Medicaid coverage provided to a medically needy individual and were without coverage for other
months because the spend-down had not been met.
Hardship Exemptions Granted by the Marketplace

1. Homelessness 10. Failure of another party to comply with a medical support order for a dependent child
2. Eviction in the last 6 months or facing eviction or foreclosure who is determined ineligible for Medicaid or CHIP
3. Utility shut-off notice 11. Through an appeals process, determined eligible for a Marketplace QHP, PTC, or
4. Domestic violence CSR but was not enrolled
5. Recent death of a close family member 12. Determined ineligible for Medicaid because the state did not expand coverage
6. Disaster that resulted in significant property damage 13. Individual health insurance plan was cancelled and you believe Marketplace plans
7. Bankruptcy in the last 6 months are considered unaffordable
8. Significant debt from medical expense in the last 24 months 14. Other hardship in obtaining coverage
9. High expense caring for ill, disabled or aging relative * The coverage exemptions for members of Indian tribes is no longer granted by the
Marketplace, except in Connecticut. See the Instructions for Form 8965 to claim the
H-14 exemption.
Exemptions: Form 8965, Part III
Coverage is Unaffordable, Code A or G
STEP 1:
To begin, screen the uninsured person for eligibility for other exemptions.
STEP 2:
Section A in the Affordability Worksheet in the Form 8965 instructions calculates the affordability threshold, the maximum
affordable amount. Compare the cost of coverage(referred to as the required contribution amount) to the affordability
threshold.
Affordability threshold (tax year 2017) = .0816 x household income
form 8965 instructions: affordabilty worksheet

(A) Affordability Threshold
Enter 8.16% of your household income (see Household Income). For this purpose, increase household
income by the amount of any premium that is paid through a salary reduction arrangement and excluded
from gross income.
WHATS INCLUDED IN HOUSEHOLD INCOME?

AGI (Form 1040, line 37)
Tax-exempt interest (Form 1040, line 8b)
Foreign income (Form 2555, line 45 and 50)
If dependent has a tax filing requirement (see 2017 Federal Tax Filing Requirement Thresholds Dependents earlier in
this tab) include dependent income
If someone in the household paid for coverage through a salary reduction agreement, include that amount as income
STEP 3:
Determine what type of affordability exemption each uninsured person in the household might be eligible for. There are
three options. STOP at the first one that applies to each uninsured household member.
OFFER OF COVERAGE THROUGH AN EMPLOYER: OFFER OF COVERAGE THROUGH AN EMPLOYER: NO OFFER OF COVERAGE THROUGH AN EMPLOYER:
AS A FAMILY MEMBER OF AN
AS AN EMPLOYEE EMPLOYEE LOOK AT THE MARKETPLACE
Use the lowest cost family policy* COVERAGE AFFORDABILITY
Use the lowest-cost plan that offered by your employer or your Use the lowest-cost bronze plan
spouses employer (if you are filing a available (after accounting for
covers only the employee
joint return). subsidies)
Get the plan cost(s) from the taxpayer. Figure out the cost to the employee or the Use the Marketplace Coverage
employees family for the entire year (annualized premium). Affordability Worksheet to
Enter annualized premium on table for each month it applies. determine cost of coverage
TIP: COBRA and retiree coverage

are not considered offers of employer
*The policy must cover everyone in your tax household:
sponsored coverage if the individual
For whom a personal exemption deduction is claimed on your tax return, did not enroll in the coverage. If the
Who isnt eligible for employer coverage, and individual enrolled in COBRA or
Who doesnt qualify for another coverage exemption. retiree coverage, s/he has MEC for
that month and does not need an
exemption.
H-15
Coverage is Unaffordable, Codes A or G, (continued)
STEP 4: CODE A
Calculate the affordability of the offer of coverage:
Annualized premium for a month > Affordability threshold = Unaffordable
A person can claim CODE A exemption on Form 8965 for that month.
When the employer offers separate coverage for one or more members of the tax household (may be referred to as stand-
alone coverage), add the cost of the offers needed to cover everyone in the tax household as appropriate and test the
aggregate offer.
EXAMPLE: Are Fred or Wilma eligible for the affordability exemption?
Lets take a married couple, Fred and Wilma, who were uninsured all year. Their household income was $25,000 for the
year. Wilmas employer offered both employee coverage and family coverage:
The employee-only premiums cost $150/month
(Annualized premium: 150 x 12 = 1,800) Why do we use an annualized premium for each month?
The employee + spouse premiums cost $400/month The affordability threshold is always based on a percentage of
(Annualized premium: 400 x 12 = 4,800) annual income. Using annualized premiums allows an apples-
to-apples comparison between premium cost and income in the
relevant months.
example: affordability worksheet, affordability threshold and annualized premiums

(A) Affordability Threshold
Enter 8.16% of your household income (see Household Income). For this purpose, increase household
income by the amount of any premium that is paid through a salary reduction arrangement and excluded 2,040
from gross income.
= income x 8.16%
Wilma Fred
(% of affordability in 2017)
1,800 4,800 Annualized premiums

1,800 4,800
1,800 4,800
1,800 4,800
Wilma: $1,800 < $2,040
1,800 4,800
Not eligible for Code A exemption
1,800 4,800 Fred: $4,800 > $2,040
1,800 4,800 Eligible for Code A exemption
1,800 4,800 Complete Form 8965
1,800 4,800
1,800 4,800
1,800 4,800
1,800 4,800
STEP 5 (if applicable): CODE G

If multiple people in the household have employer coverage offers:
There is an exemption that may be claimed if the self-only offer is affordable but the combined cost crosses the affordabil-
ity threshold. This can only be claimed if:
Multiple people have employer offers of coverage.
The cost of self-only coverage is affordable for each person. (Each is less than the affordability threshold.)
The cost of self-only coverage for both, combined, exceeds the affordability threshold.
Family coverage is not offered, or, if it is offered, its cost exceeds the affordability threshold.
If this exemption applies for any month of the year, the CODE G exemption can be claimed for the entire year for the
entire household.
H-16
Marketplace Coverage Affordability Worksheet
This worksheet is used only if there is no offer of employee coverage
TIP: If the lowest cost bronze plan (LCBP) costs less than 8.16% of income (above), there is an affordable offer of coverage. No Code A exemption
is available. (The Marketplace presented affordable coverage and the marketplace affordability exemption does not apply)
LCBP: Go to the taxpayers Marketplace, such as www.healthcare.gov. LINE 1: LCBP - Asks for the lowest cost bronze plan
(LCBP) for everyone in the tax household who is:
NOTE: The look up tool asks about tobacco use. Tobacco use is the use of
Not offered employer sponsored coverage, and
a tobacco product 4 or more times per week within no longer than the past
Not otherwise exempt.
6 months by legal users of tobacco products (generally those 18 and older).
Find this value using the Tax Tool for your Marketplace.
Remember: Include people who are covered through
Medicare or Medicaid!
If married filing separately, enter LCBP here and on Line
employer-sponsored coverage was different. 12 (skip lines 2-11).
!
CAUTION
Do not complete this worksheet unless you were instructed to do so in the Affordability Worksheet.
Do not complete this worksheet unless you were instructed to do so in the Affordability Worksheet.
1.
1. Enterthe
Enter themonthly
monthlypremium
premium forfor
thethe lowest
lowest cost
cost bronze
bronze planplan
thatthat covers
covers everyone
everyone in tax
in your your tax household
household for whomfor whom a personal
a personal
exemptiondeduction
exemption deduction is is claimed,
claimed, whowho isn't
is not eligible
eligible forfor employer
employer coverage,
coverage, and and
who who
doesdoesn't qualify
not qualify for another
for another coverage
coverage LINE 2: Household
exemptionfor
exemption forthe
the month.
month. To To
findfind the lowest
the lowest cost bronze
cost bronze plan goplan goMarketplace
to the to www.HealthCare.gov/tax-tool
for your area . . . . . . or
. . the
. . .Marketplace
. . . . . for MAGI is adjusted
2.
your area. If you are married and file a separate return, enter the monthly premium here and on line 12. Dont complete
Enter your household income (see Household income) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . gross income + tax
lines 2-11. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3. Enter the total of all nontaxable social security benefits received by you, your spouse, and each claimed dependent who exempt interest +
2. must
Enterfile a tax
your return* . income
household . . . . . .(see
. . . Household . . . . . . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . income) ... excluded foreign
4. Add lines 2 and 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . earned income.
3. Enter the total of all nontaxable social security benefits received by you, your spouse, and each claimed dependent who
5. Enter the federal poverty line for the number of individuals in your tax household less any dependents not claimed. See the Include MAGI of any
must file a tax return* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
instructions for Form 8962, line 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
claimed dependents
6.
4. Divide line 42 by
Add lines line
and 3 5.. .If .the
. . result
. . . . (without
. . . . . .rounding)
. . . . . . is. .less . . .than. . .1.0 . . or. .more
. . . than
. . . .4.0, . . skip
. . . lines
. . . .7.through
. . . . . 10 . . and . . . enter . . . .-0- .....
on line 11. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
with a filing
5.
7. Enter the federal poverty line for the number of individuals in your tax
Multiply line 6 by 100 and round to the nearest whole number. Enter the applicable figure for the result from the table in thehousehold less any dependents not claimed. See requirement.
the instructions
instructions for Form
for Form 8962, line8962, 7 .line . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . 4
8.
6. Multiply line 4
Divide line 4 by
by line
line75. .If. the . . .result
. . . . (without
. . . . . . rounding)
. . . . . . . is . .less
. . .than. . . 1.0. . . or . .more
. . . . than. . . 4.0,
. . . skip
. . . .lines. . . 7 . .through
. . . . . .10 . .and . enter
9. Divide
-0- online
line811
by 12.0
. . . . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . . ...
10. Enter the monthly premium for the second lowest cost silver plan premium that covers everyone in your tax household for
7. Multiply line 6 by 100 and round to the nearest whole number. Enter the applicable figure for the result from the table in LINE 6: If less than
whom a personal exemption deduction is claimed, who is not eligible for minimum essential coverage (other than coverage
the
in theinstructions for Form
individual market), 8962,
and line 7not
who does . . qualify
. . . . .for. .another
. . . . . coverage . . . . . . .exemption . . . . . . .for. .the . . month.
. . . . .To . .find . . .the . . second
. . . . . lowest ....... 1.0 (100% FPL)
8. cost silverline
Multiply plan4 go
by the
lineMarketplace
7 . . . . . .for
. .your
. . . area
. . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . or over 4.0 (400%
11. Subtract line 9 from line 10. If zero or less, enter -0-. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FPL), skip lines 7-10.
9. Divide line
12. Subtract line811 12.0line. .1.. If. zero
byfrom . . . .or. less,
. . . .enter
. . . -0-.
. . .This
. . .is. the
. . .individual's
. . . . . . . required
. . . . . .contribution
. . . . . . . .for
. .the
. . month
. . . . . . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ...
Note: This % will also
13. Is
10. the individual
Enter eligible
the monthly for this for
premium coverage for every
the second month
lowest of the
cost year?
silver plan premium that covers everyone in your tax household help identify who is
for whom a personal exemption deduction is claimed, who isn't eligible for minimum essential coverage (other than
Yes. Multiply line 12 by 12.0. This is the annualized premium. Enter this amount in the space for every month on the eligible for Medicaid
coverage in the individual market), and who doesn't qualify for another coverage exemption for the month. To find the
Affordability Worksheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . in Line 10.
second lowest cost silver plan go to www.HealthCare.gov/tax-tool or the Marketplace for your area . . . . . . . . . . . . .
No. Use the Annualized Premium Worksheet to determine what the annualized premium would be for each month the
11. individual
Subtract line 9was eligible
from for .the
line 10 coverage
If zero being
or less, tested.
enter -0-. Enter
. . . the
. . .annualized
. . . . . . .premium
. . . . . . in. .the
. .space
. . . . for
. . the
. . .appropriate
............
months on the Affordability Worksheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12. Subtract line 11 from line 1. If zero or less, enter -0-. This is the individuals required contribution for the month . . . . .
*If the individual filed Form 1040, figure the nontaxable social security benefits received by that individual by subtracting Form 1040, line 20b from Form 1040,
13. Is the
line 20a. If theindividual eligible
individual filed Form for thisfigure
1040A, coverage for every
the nontaxable month
social of the
security year?
benefits . . . . by
received . .that
. . .individual
. . . . . by
. . subtracting
. . . . . . .Form
. . . 1040A,
. . . . .line
. . 14b from Form
1040A, line 14a. If the individual filed Form 1040EZ, he or she should have received a Form SSA-1099 or Form RRB-1099 showing the social security benefits
Yes. Multiply line 12 by 12.0. This
received by that individual, all of which were nontaxable.
is the annualized premium. Enter this amount in the space for every month on
the Affordability Worksheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
No. Multiply line 12 by 12.0. This is the annualized premium. Enter this amount in the space on the Affordability
Incarceration Worksheet
(code F). for each month
You can thea individual
claim coverage was eligibleforfor the coverage being tested. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
exemption
household described in condition 1 could enroll in through an
which the individual was incarcerated for at least 1 day in the month. employer exceeds 8% of household income, and
Enter
For
*If the the appropriate
thisindividual
purpose, filed Formamount
an individual 1040, on the
is considered
figure theincarcerated if he orsecurity benefits
nontaxable social 3. The combined
received cost
by that of the self-only
individual coverageForm
by subtracting identified
1040,inline
she was
fromconfined,
Affordability
20b afterline
FormWorksheet
1040, the 20a.
disposition
as Ifdirected.of charges, in aForm
Thisfiled
the individual jail, prison,
1040A,orfigure condition 1 exceeds
the nontaxable 8%security
social of household
benefits income.
received by that individual by
similar penalForm
worksheet
subtracting institution
will compare
1040A,or correctional
linethe facility.
14bannualized
from FormTo claim line
1040A, this 14a.
coverage
If the individual filed Form 1040EZ,
exemption, enter code F in Partshowing
III, column Example 1two offershe ofor she should
self-only have received
coverage a Form
that together
SSA-1099
premium or
to Form
the RRB-1099
affordability threshold.thec,social
and identify
securitythe benefits received by that individual,
are unaffordable. all and
Justin of which
Sally were nontaxable.
are married, have no
months to which the exemption applies as described under Column otherwise exempt.
dependents, and file a joint return. Justin is offered self-only
Line 13: Enter the appropriate amount on Line 10: Second lowest cost silver plan (SLCSP): Go to the Market-
the Affordability Worksheet as directed. place at https://www.healthcare.gov/tax-tool/
Compare this amount to the affordability Do not include individuals in your tax household that are eligible for other
threshold. employer sponsored or government sponsored MEC, or who are other-
If the annualized premium costs less wise exempt.
than 8.16% of income, no exemption For example, that means that the SLCSP cost would NOT INCLUDE the
applies. taxpayer or spouse who is enrolled in or eligible for Medicare or Medicaid.
(This is different from line 1).
If the annualized premium costs
more than 8.16% of income, Code If the taxpayer is unsure whether they or their dependents were eligible
A applies. for Medicaid, see https://www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/program-informa-
tion/medicaid-and-chip-eligibility-levels/index.html
TIP: Note that more than one marketplace coverage affordability worksheet may be needed if circumstances changed during the year.
H-17
How to Use the Healthcare.gov Tax Tool
WHO SHOULD USE THIS TOOL?
Taxpayers who live in federal marketplace (Healthcare.gov) states, or in a state that uses the Healthcare.gov technology. If
you live in a state with a state-based marketplace, contact the marketplace by phone or online.
To begin, go to https://www.healthcare.gov/tax-tool/.
Select Claim an affordability exemption
These instructions
focus on using
the tool to claim
the affordability
exemption but the
tool also allows
a taxpayer to
find their SLCSP
to complete or
correct Column B
of the Form 1095-
A.
The Tax Tool will ask you to enter all members of the household, even those with other coverage or an exemption.
Step 1
for each family
member
determines
whether someone
will be included
in the lowest
cost bronze plan
(LCBP), which
you will enter
on Line 1 of the
ACA Marketplace
Coverage
Affordability
Worksheet.
Follow the instructions closely! Check the boxes for the months the person was:
Eligible for employer-sponsored coverage (from their own employer or a member of their family on the same tax return)
Eligible for another exemption
Leave the boxes unchecked if those circumstances dont apply.
H-18
(continued)
Step 2
for each family
member
determines
whether someone
will be included in
the second lowest
cost silver plan
(SLCSP), which
you will enter on
Line 10 of the
ACA Marketplace
Coverage
Affordability
Worksheet.
Follow the instructions closely! Check the boxes for the months the person was:
Eligible for or enrolled in Medicare, Medicaid, or CHIP. Months will be disabled if you said in Step 1 that a person was
eligible for employer-sponsored coverage or an exemption.
Leave the boxes unchecked if those circumstances dont apply.
Next, several
screens
will ask for the
familys
ZIP code and
whether
they lived in the
same
place for all
months.
Then, confirm
the information
for each family
member.
Remember: Print
out the review
information and
the results page
screens for
the taxpayers
records.
H-19
(continued)
The results page shows the
LCBP and SLCSP for the
household.
Remember: Print out the

review information and the
results page screens for the
taxpayers records.
NOTE:
If household income on
the ACA Marketplace
Worksheet is less than
100% FPL or greater than
400% FPL, use only the
LCBP. Do not enter the
SLCSP amount on Line 10
of the Worksheet (because
the person is not eligible for
PTC).
If the taxpayers filing

status is married filing
separately, use only
the LCBP. Enter zero on
Line 10 of the Worksheet
(because the person is not
eligible for PTC).
H-20
Federal Poverty Lines
For purposes of the premium tax credit, eligibility for a certain year is based on the most recently published set of poverty
lines. As a result, the tax credit for 2017 will be based on the 2016 federal poverty lines.
2016 Poverty Lines for the 48 Contiguous States and the District of Columbia
For families/households with more than 8 persons, add $4,160 for each additional person (100% Poverty Line)
Persons in family/household 100% Poverty Line 138% Poverty Line 400% Poverty Line
1 $11,880 $16,394 $47,520
2 $16,020 $22,108 $64,080
3 $20,160 $27,821 $80,640
4 $24,300 $33,534 $97,200
5 $28,440 $39,247 $113,760
6 $32,580 $44,960 $130,320
7 $36,730 $50,687 $146,920
8 $40,890 $56,428 $163,560
2016 Poverty Lines for Alaska

For families/households with more than 8 persons, add $5,200 for each additional person (100% Poverty Line)
1 $14,840 $20,479 $59,360
2 $20,020 $27,628 $80,080
3 $25,200 $34,776 $100,800
4 $30,380 $41,924 $121,520
5 $35,560 $49,073 $142,240
6 $40,740 $56,221 $162,960
7 $45,920 $63,370 $183,680
8 $51,120 $70,546 $204,480
2016 Poverty Lines for Hawaii

For families/households with more than 8 persons, add $4,780 for each additional person (100% Poverty Line).
1 $13,670 $18,865 $54,680
2 $18,430 $25,433 $73,720
3 $23,190 $32,002 $92,760
4 $27,950 $38,571 $111,800
5 $32,710 $45,140 $130,840
6 $37,470 $51,709 $149,880
7 $42,230 $58,277 $168,920
8 $47,010 $64,874 $188,040
H-21
Shared Responsibility Payment
How is the Payment Calculated?
For the year, based on the greater of the calculated:
A. percentage of income or
B. flat dollar amount
Limited to maximum of 3X per household ($2,085 for 2016)
Cannot exceed the national average premium for bronze level health plans
Prorated for months without coverage/exemption
Greater of
2014 2015 2016 After 2016

Percentage 1% of household 2% of household 2.5% of household 2.5% of household
income income above the income above the income above the income above the
(annual) filing threshold filing threshold filing threshold filing threshold
Flat dollar $95 per adult $325 per adult $695 per adult $695 per adult
amount 50% for individuals 50% for individuals 50% for individuals plus an increase
(annual) under 18 under 18 under 18 based on cost of
living
50% for individuals
under 18
TaxSlayer will calculate and add dependents MAGI to taxpayers MAGI for the SRP calculation from entries already en-
tered
Enter dependents AGI ONLY (not taxpayer or spouse) If

dependents gross income is above the filing threshold. See
page the 2017 Federal Tax Filing Requirement Thresholds
Dependents chart, earlier in this tab.
H-22
Shared Responsibility Payment (Example)
TaxSlayer will complete Worksheet A. The example below shows an SRP calculation for a taxpayer who must pay an SRP
for six months for herself and six months for her dependent.
H-23
Premium Tax Credit: Form 1095-A Overview
A person who purchased insurance through the Marketplace will receive Form 1095-A. A taxpayer who received the
benefit of advance payments of the premium tax credit (APTC) must complete Form 8962. You cannot prepare the
return for taxpayers who received the benefit of APTC without Form(s) 1095-A.
Carefully examine Form 1095-A to make sure it reflects the taxpayers account of coverage. Look for critical errors that
will affect the PTC calculation, such as errors in enrollment premiums, SLCSP premiums, or APTC. The taxpayer should
seek a corrected 1095-A if enrollment related information is incorrect.
This includes:
Marketplace call center: 1-800-318-2596
Policy issuers name (Part I) (TTY: 1-855-889-4325) For states not using
Policy start or end date (Part I, Part II) Healthcare.gov, look up state Marketplace at
Premium cost (Part III, Column A) healthcare.gov
APTC received (Part III, Column C)
To obtain an original or corrected Form 1095-A the taxpayer can log into his or her online account, or call the
Marketplace call center.
Column A - Monthly Premium: These
are the total monthly enrollment premiums
for the policy in which the individuals
are covered. This is the full premium,
16
including the amount paid by APTC
but it includes only the premiums for
essential health benefits. The amount
does not include the cost of certain
extra benefits such as adult dental
coverage.
Column B - Monthly SLCSP premium:
If this column is blank and the individuals
enrolled in a plan through a Federally-
facilitated Marketplace, go to www.
Healthcare.gov and use the tax tool to find
the SLCSP premium to enter in Column
B. If the individuals enrolled through
a State-based Marketplace, go to the
states website to determine the SLCSP
premium. In some cases, the state will
send a table with the information. If the
State-based Marketplace does not have a
look-up tool to find the SLCSP premium,
call the Marketplace to obtain a correct
SLCSP premium. The SLCSP premium
You may need to look up the SLCSP premium if: is the premium for the second lowest
It is incorrect, perhaps because a change in family size was not cost silver-level plan that covers all the
reported. members of the coverage family.
It is missing. This happens when someone paid the full premium Column C - Advance payment of PTC
because he or she did not request advance payments of the premium
tax credit. Marketplaces routinely leave this space blank. TIP: A person may be entitled to PTC even if no
APTC was paid for the coverage. Do not assume
There are multiple Forms 1095-A with conflicting information or the someone is ineligible for PTC just because
taxpayer otherwise thinks its incorrect. Columns B and C of Form 1095-A are blank. If an
individual meets all the eligibility rules in the Form
See https://www.healthcare.gov/tax-tool/ or your states tax tool. 8962 instructions but only the enrollment premium
amounts in Column A appear on Form 1095-A
and Columns B and C are blank, look up the
persons SLCSP premiums and enter them on the
Advanced Premium Tax Credit (1095-A) screen in
the Premium Amount of SLCSP section.
H-24
Premium Tax Credit
For taxpayers who purchased insurance through the Marketplace, complete the screen below using their Form 1095-A.
This question appears for all taxpayers with APTC:

This question is really asking: Is the taxpayer liable for unlimited APTC repayment?
Answer NO in most cases.
Only answer YES if the tax return:
Includes an undocumented immigrant who received APTC; or
Has a person who was eligible for the Trade Adjustment Assistance Health Care Tax Credit (HCTC) (out of scope)
This question appears only if taxpayers income is under 100% FPL:

Answer YES in most cases. Answer YES if:
The marketplace awarded APTC; or
The person is lawfully present but ineligible for Medicaid
Answer NO ONLY if:
Income is below 100% FPL, no APTC was paid, and the second bullet from above does not apply
CAUTION: The TaxSlayer default answer is NO for this question.
If the taxpayer is Married Filing Separately a checkbox will appear on this screen. If the taxpayer
cannot file a joint return because of domestic abuse or spousal abandonment in the last year, check
the box. See Form 8962 Instructions for details. If a taxpayer is Married Filing Separately and is not
eligible for relief, he/she must repay APTC, subject to the repayment limitation.
If Form 1095-A shows the same monthly amounts for all 12 months, select Yes and enter the
annual amounts below. Otherwise, select No and enter monthly amounts.
If one or more of the amounts in column B is incorrect and the correct SLCSP premium amounts are
not the same for all 12 months, select No.
H-25
Premium Tax Credit, (continued)
If the following situations apply, a shared policy allocation may be required and the return is out of scope:
The 1095-A lists a covered person who is not on this tax return or,
A person on the tax return was enrolled in another taxpayers Marketplace coverage. (The person is listed on a Form
1095-A sent to a taxpayer not on this tax return.)
If the following situation applies, an Alternative Calculation for Year of Marriage may be elected. If the taxpayer elects
this option, the return is out of scope.
Taxpayers got married during the year and are filing a joint return, and taxpayers were both unmarried as of January 1,
2017
A member of the taxpayers tax family was enrolled in a qualified health plan for which APTC was paid for months prior to
the first full month of marriage, and
Taxpayers have excess APTC
H-26
Premium Tax Credit, Form 8962
If a taxpayer is MFS and is eligible

for relief because of spousal abuse
Review the Form 8962 for accuracy:
or abandonment, this box should be
checked.
If MFS but not eligible for relief, he/
she must repay APTC, subject to the
repayment limitation.
Example xxxx
The dependents
MAGI should appear
on this line ONLY
IF the dependents
gross income is
above the filing
threshold.
The net premium tax credit a taxpayer can claim

(the excess of the taxpayers premium tax credit over
APTC) will appear on Form 1040, line 69. This amount
will increase taxpayers refund or reduce the balance
due.
The amount of excess APTC (amount by which APTC

exceeds the taxpayers premium tax credit) that needs
to be repaid will appear on Form 1040, line 46.
H-27
Premium Tax Credit Special Situations
See Instructions for Form 8962 and Publication 974, Premium Tax Credit, for additional information.
Multiple Forms 1095-A

Some taxpayers will have multiple Forms 1095-A. This will happen if the taxpayer:
Changed Marketplace plans during the year
Updated their application with new information that resulted in a new enrollment
Had family members enrolled in different Marketplace plans
Had more than 5 family members in the same plan
Entering Multiple Forms 1095-A on One Form 8962 - Make sure everyone on the Forms 1095-A is also on
the tax return. If not, this may be a Shared Policy Allocation.
Column A: Add the premiums together.

Column B: If everyone is enrolled in
the same state, the SLCSP premium
should be the same on all Forms 1095-
A for a given month. Enter that amount.
If the enrollees are enrolled in different
states, add the SLCSP premiums.
When in doubt, look it up in the Tax Tool
for your Marketplace.
Column C (entered in Column F of
Form 8962): Add the amounts together.
The taxpayer stopped paying premiums

What youll see: Numbers in Columns B and C but no
premium in Column A (-0-) for a month on Form 1095-A,
Part III
What to do:
The taxpayer can only claim a PTC for a month of
enrollment if the premium for the month is paid by the
tax return due date (without extensions). If the APTC is
high and covers most of the premium, can the taxpayer
make the (late) premium payment? It may be more
cost-effective to pay the premium than to repay the
APTC. When the premium is paid, ask for a corrected
Form 1095-A.
If the premium payment has not and will not be made,
enter -0- in Column A and Column B for the month and
enter the APTC for the month in Column C.Note: There
should never be consecutive months like this. If so,
there is an error on Form 1095-A.
Even if the taxpayer isnt eligible for PTC, he or she is still considered to have coverage for the month, despite nonpayment
of premium.
The taxpayer is ineligible for the PTC

-See Form 8962 instructions
-Enter 0 in column B
H-28
Premium Tax Credit
Handling Unexpected APTC Repayments
Many tax preparers are seeing clients with unexpected repayments of APTC that they must repay on Form 8962, Line 29.
Form 8962: Part III
Review the Health Care section in the software:

Make sure Form 1095-A is correct and complete (see Premium Tax Credit: Form 1095-A Overview, earlier in this
tab).
Ask the taxpayer to contact the Marketplace if the form doesnt reflect premiums that were paid or if there are
other errors.
If the taxpayer received Form 1095-A, make sure the question Is your household income below 100%... is
answered correctly in the Health Insurance section of the software (see the Premium Tax Credit entry screens,
earlier in this tab).
Check the Health Insurance section of the software to see if the question Are you required to repay all of the
APTC received? is answered correctly (see the Premium Tax Credit entry screens, earlier in this tab).
If the TP or spouse lived in Hawaii or Alaska, ensure that state is selected as the resident state in the Basic
Information section.
Consider income adjustments to reduce household income.

If the taxpayer is eligible to claim an IRA deduction, remember that taxpayers can contribute to an IRA until the tax
filing deadline.
If the taxpayer or spouse has an HSA and has not contributed the maximum for the tax year, he or she may
contribute to their HSA until the tax filing deadline.
If the taxpayer or spouse is self-employed, ensure all business expenses have been claimed. The taxpayer should
be referred to a professional return preparer if they wish to claim the self-employed health insurance deduction
which will also reduce their household income.
If the taxpayer or spouse is eligible and wishes to claim HCTC or establish a SEP-IRA, refer to a professional
return preparer.
Consider married filing separately.

The taxpayer may be ineligible for the PTC, but filing separately may cap repayment at a lower level based on
income.
Important! If the taxpayer is currently enrolled in
Marketplace coverage and has a 2017 repayment,
the taxpayer should contact the Marketplace
now to adjust their 2018 APTC to avoid similar
repayments for the 2018 tax year!
Repayment Caps for APTC

Income (as % of federal poverty line) Taxpayers Filing as SINGLE Taxpayers Using Other Filing Statuses
Under 200% $300 $600
200% 299% $750 $1,500
300% 399% $1,275 $2,550
400% and above No cap (full repayment) No cap (full repayment)
H-29
Allocation of Policy Amounts
Caution: If this situation applies, the return is out of scope.
Policy amounts (enrollment premiums, SLCSP premiums, and/or APTC) on a Form 1095-A
need to be allocated between the taxpayers tax family and another tax family if:
The policy covered at least one individual in the taxpayer's tax family and at least one individual in another tax
family, and
The taxpayer received a Form 1095-A for the policy that does not accurately represent the members of their tax
family who were enrolled in the policy (meaning that it either lists someone who is not in their tax family or does
not list a member of their tax family who was enrolled in the policy), or
The other tax family received a Form 1095-A for the policy that includes a member of the taxpayers tax family.
TIP: If the taxpayer received a Form 1095-A, make sure everyone listed on the form is the taxpayer, their spouse, or
their dependent.
Alternative Calculation for Year of

Marriage Eligibility
Alternative Calculation for Year of Marriage Eligibility
Line numbers in the following table refer to Form 8962.
Caution: Taxpayers may choose to file MFJ or MFS without the alternative calculation, which remains in scope. If the
taxpayer answers YES to question 5 and elects this alternative calculation, the return is out of scope.
H-30
Notes
H-32
I. Earned Income
Credit
Earned Income Table
Earned Income for EIC
Includes Doesnt include
Taxable wages, Interest and dividends
salaries, and tips Social security and railroad retirement benefits
Union strike Welfare benefits
benefits Workfare payments
Taxable long-term Pensions and annuities (except if disability pension and taxpayer is under
disability benefits minimum retirement age)
received prior to Veterans benefits (including VA rehabilitation payments)
minimum retirement Workers compensation benefits
age Alimony
Net earnings from Child support
self-employment Nontaxable foster-care payments
Gross income of a Unemployment compensation
statutory employee Taxable scholarship or fellowship grants that arent reported on FormW-2
Household Earnings for work performed while an inmate at a penal institution or on work
employee income release*
Nontaxable combat Salary deferrals (for example, under a 401(k) or 403(b) plan or the Federal Thrift
pay election Savings Plan)
Non-Employee The value of meals or lodging provided by an employer for the convenience of the
compensation employer
The rental value Disability Insurance payments
of a home or a Excludable dependent care benefits (line 24 of Form 2441)
housing allowance Salary reductions such as under a cafeteria plan
provided to a Excludable employer-provided educational assistance benefits (may be shown in
minister as part of box 13 of Form W-2)
the ministers pay Anything else of value received from someone for services performed, if it isnt
(Out of Scope) currently taxable, which include Medicaid waiver payments that have been
excluded from income.
Common EIC Filing Errors

Claiming a child who doesnt meet the residency and relationship requirements
Married taxpayers incorrectly filing as a single or head of household
Incorrectly reporting income, particularly income and expenses from self employment
Incorrect social security numbers
*Note: This particular income is entered as other income on the return and not counted as earned income.
I-1
Summary of EIC Eligibility Requirements
Part B Part C
Part A
Rules If You Have Rules If You Dont
Rules for Everyone
a Qualifying Child Have a Qualifying Child
Taxpayers & qualifying children Child must meet the relationship, Must be at least age 25 but under
must all have SSN that is valid for age, residency test and joint return age 65 as of December 31.*
employment by the due date of the tests but not the support test.
return (including extensions). The child doesnt have to be your
dependent.. If child is married, see
Note below.
Filing status cant be married Qualifying child cant be used by Cant be the dependent of another
filing separately. more than one person to claim the person.
EIC.
Must be a U.S. citizen or resident The taxpayer cant be a qualifying Must have lived in the United
alien all year. child of another person. States more than half the year.
Cant file Form 2555 or Cant be a qualifying child of
Form 2555-EZ (relating to foreign another person.
earned income).
Investment income must be $3,450
or less.
Cant be a qualifying child of
another person.
Part D
Earned Income and AGI Limitations
You must have earned income to qualify for this credit.
Your earned income and AGI must be less than:
$48,340 (53,930 for married filing jointly) if you
have three or more qualifying children,
$45,007 ($50,597 for married filing jointly) if you
have two qualifying children,
have one qualifying child, or
dont have a qualifying child.
Note: To meet the joint return test, the child cannot file a joint return for the year unless its to only claim a
refund of income tax withheld or estimated tax paid.
Caution: Taxpayers cannot file an amended return to claim the credit for a year they did not originally have a
valid social security number.
I-2
EIC General Eligibility Rules
step Calculate the taxpayers earned income and adjusted gross If YES, go to Step 2.
1 income (AGI) for the tax year. Are both less than: If NO, STOP. You cant claim the EIC.
$48,340 ($53,930 married filing jointly) with three or
more qualifying children;
$45,007 ($50,597 married filing jointly) with two
qualifying children;
$39,617 ($45,207 married filing jointly) with one
qualifying child; or
$15,010 ($20,600 married filing jointly) with no
qualifying children?
step Do you (and your spouse, if filing jointly) have a social secu- If YES, go to Step 3.
2 rity number (SSN) that allows you to work?* If NO, STOP. You cant claim the EIC.
Note: Answer no if the taxpayers social security card has
a NOT VALID FOR EMPLOYMENT imprint, and if the card-
holder obtained the SSN to get a federally funded benefit,
such as Medicaid.
step Is your filing status married filing separately? If YES, STOP. You cant claim the EIC.
step Are you (or your spouse, if married) a nonresident alien? If YES and you are either unmarried
4 Note: Answer no if the taxpayer is married filing jointly, and or married but not filing a joint return,
one spouse is a citizen or resident alien and the other STOP. You cant claim the EIC.
is a nonresident alien. If NO, go to Step 5.
step Are you (or your spouse, if filing jointly) filing Form 2555 or If YES, STOP. You cant claim the EIC.
5 Form 2555-EZ (Foreign Earned Income) to exclude income If NO, go to Step 6.
earned in a foreign country?
step Is your investment income (interest, tax exempt interest, If YES, STOP. You cant claim the EIC.
6 dividends & capital gains) more than $3,450? If NO, go to Step 7.
step Are you (or your spouse, if filing jointly) the qualifying child If YES, STOP. You cant claim the EIC.
7 of another taxpayer? If NO, go to the interview tips for
EICWith a Qualifying Child or
EICWithout a Qualifying Child.
*Note: If your Social Security card says VALID FOR WORK ONLY WITH DHS AUTHORIZATION, you
can use your Social Security number to claim EITC if you otherwise qualify.
I-3
EIC With a Qualifying Child
step Does your qualifying child have an SSN that allows If YES, go to Step 2.
1 him or her to work? If NO, STOP. You cant claim the EIC on the basis
Note: Answer NO if the childs social security card of this qualifying child.
says NOT VALID FOR EMPLOYMENT and his or
her SSN was only obtained to get a federally funded
benefit.
step Is the child your son, daughter, stepchild, adopted If YES, go to Step 3.
2 child, or eligible foster child, brother, sister, half If NO, STOP. This child isnt your qualifying child.
brother, half sister, stepbrother, stepsister, or a Go to interview tips for EIC without a Qualifying
descendant of any of them? Child.
step Was the child any of the following at the end of the If YES, go to Step 4.
3 tax year: If NO, STOP. This child isnt your qualifying child.
Under age 19 and younger than the taxpayer (or Go to interview tips for EIC without a Qualifying
spouse, if filing jointly) Child.
Under age 24 and a full-time student and younger
than the taxpayer (or spouse, if filing jointly), or
Any age and permanently and totally disabled?
step Did the child file a joint return for the year?1 If NO, go to Step 5.
4 Note: Answer NO if the child and his or her spouse If YES, STOP. This child isnt your qualifying child
filed a joint return only as a claim for a refund. (failed the joint return test). Go to interview tips
for EIC without a Qualifying Child.
step Did the child live with you in the United States for If YES, go to Step 6.
5 more than half (183 days for 2017) of the tax year? If NO, STOP. This child isnt your qualifying child.
Note: Active duty military personnel stationed Go to interview tips for EIC without a Qualifying
outside the United States are considered to live Child.
in the United States for this purpose.
step Is the child a qualifying child of another person? If YES, explain to the taxpayer what happens
6 Note: There may be a case when a qualifying child when more than one person claims the EIC using
cant be claimed by anyone. Example: The only the same child (Qualifying Child of More than
parent that the child lives with doesnt work nor files One Person rule). If the taxpayer chooses to
a tax return and another adult cant meet the general claim the credit with this child, compute the EIC
eligibility rules. In this example no one qualifies to using the appropriate EIC worksheets.
claim this child as a qualifying child If NO, compute the EIC using the appropriate
for EIC. EIC worksheet.
1
If your child was married at the end of the year, he or she doesnt meet the joint return test unless you can claim the childs
exemption or you cant claim the childs exemption because you gave that right to the childs other parent.
I-4
EIC Without a Qualifying Child
step Can you (or your spouse, if filing jointly) be claimed as a If NO, go to Step 2.
1 dependent by another person? If YES, STOP. You cant claim the EIC.
step Were you (or your spouse, if filing jointly) at least 25 but If NO, STOP. You cant claim the EIC.
2 under age 65 on December 31 of the tax year? Taxpayers If YES, go to Step 3.
born on January 1st are considered to be of age as of
December 31st. Taxpayers reaching the age of 65 on
January 1st are still considered 64 as of December 31st.
step Did you (and your spouse, if filing jointly) live in the If NO, STOP. You cant claim the EIC.
3 United States for more than half (at least 1831 days) of If YES, compute EIC using the appropriate
the tax year? EIC worksheet.
1
More than 183 days in a leap year.
*Taxpayers turning 25 on January 1st are considered to be 25 as of December 31st. Taxpayers reaching the
age of 65 on January 1st are still considered 64 as of December 31st.
Note 1: Taxpayers meeting the above age criteria should file a paper return to avoid a potential rejected
electronic filed return AND IN YEAR TAXPAYER TURNS 65 IF DEATH OCCURS BEFORE BIRTHDAY.
Qualifying Child of More than One Person

If the child meets the conditions to be the qualifying child of more than one person, only one person can
claim the child. The following rules apply if multiple taxpayers claim the same qualifying child. Review all of
the conditions to see which one applies.
If only one of the persons is the childs parent, the child is treated as the qualifying child of the
parent.
If the parents dont file a joint return together but both parents claim the child as a qualifying
child, the IRS will treat the child as the qualifying child of the parent with whom the child lived
for the longer period of time in 2017. If the child lived with each parent for the same amount
of time, the IRS will treat the child as the qualifying child of the parent who had the higher
adjusted gross income (AGI) for 2017.
If no parent can claim the child as a qualifying child, the child is treated as the qualifying child
of the person who had the highest AGI for 2017.
If a parent can claim the child as a qualifying child but no parent does so claim the child, the
child is treated as the qualifying child of the person who had the highest AGI for 2017, but
only if that persons AGI is higher than the highest AGI of any of the childs parents who can
claim the child.
Note: If you cant claim the EIC because your qualifying child is treated under the tiebreaker rules as the
qualifying child of another person for 2017, you may be able to take the EIC using a different qualifying child, or
take the EIC if they qualify using the rules for people who dont have a qualifying child.
Note: Taxpayers have the option to choose which taxpayer will claim the child. The tiebreaker rules apply
when the child is claimed by multiple taxpayers.
I-5
Disallowance of Certain Refundable Credits
Taxslayer Navigation: Federal section>Deductions>Credit menu>Earned Income Credit
Form 8862, Information to Claim Certain Refundable Credits After Disallowance must be completed
for any taxpayer whose EIC, child tax credit (CTC)/additional child tax credit (ACTC), or American
opportunity tax credit was previously reduced or disallowed and the taxpayer received a letter saying
they had to complete and attach Form 8862 to claim the credit(s) the next time.
If the IRS determined a taxpayer claimed the credit(s) due to reckless or intentional disregard of the
rules the taxpayer cant claim the credit(s) for 2 tax years. If the error was due to fraud, then the taxpayer
cant claim the credit(s) for 10 tax years.
I-6
J. Education
Benefits
Tax Treatment of Scholarship and Fellowship Payments
A scholarship or fellowship is tax free (excludable from gross income) only if:
You are a candidate for a degree at an eligible educational institution. You are a candidate for a degree
if you attend a primary or secondary school or are pursuing a degree at a college or university, or attend
an educational institution that offers a program of training to prepare students for gainful employment in a
recognized occupation and is authorized under federal or state law to provide such a program and is accredited
by a nationally recognized accreditation agency.
A scholarship or fellowship is tax free only to the extent:
It doesnt exceed your qualified education expenses;
It isnt designated or earmarked for other purposes (such as room and board), and doesnt require (by its terms)
that it cant be used for qualified education expenses; and
It doesnt represent payment for teaching, research, or other services required as a condition for receiving the
scholarship. (But for exceptions, see Payment for services in Publication 970).
Use Worksheet 11 to figure the amount of a scholarship or fellowship you can exclude from gross income.
Education Expenses
The following are qualified education expenses for the purposes of tax-free scholarships and fellowships:
Tuition and fees required to enroll at or attend an eligible educational institution.
Course-related expenses, such as fees, books, supplies, and equipment that are required for the courses at
the eligible educational institution. These items must be required of all students in your course of instruction.
Qualified education expenses dont include the cost of:
Room and board Travel
Research Clerical help
Equipment and other expenses not required for enrollment in or attendance at an eligible educational
institution
Worksheet 1-1. Taxable Scholarship and Fellowship Income

1. Enter the total amount of any scholarship or fellowship for the tax year. .... 1.______________
If you are a degree candidate at an eligible educational institution, go to line 2.
If you arent a degree candidate at an eligible educational institution, stop here. The
entire amount is taxable.
2 Enter the amount from line 1 that was for teaching, research, or any other services required 2.______________
as a condition for receiving the scholarship. (Dont include amounts received for these items
under the National Health Service Corps Scholarship Program or the Armed Forces Health
Professions Scholarship and Financial Assistance Program.)
3. Subtract line 2 from line 1 .................................................................................... 3.______________
4. Enter the amount from line 3 that your scholarship or fellowship required you to use for other 4.______________
than qualified education expenses .............................................................
5. Subtract line 4 from line 3. ................................................................................... 5.______________
6. Enter the amount of your qualified education expenses (see Education Expenses above) ........ 6.______________
..........................................................................................................
7. Enter the smaller of line 5 or line 6. This amount is the most you can exclude from your gross 7.______________
income1 (the tax-free part of the scholarship or fellowship) .......................
8. Subtract line 7 from line 5 .................................................................................... 8.______________
9. TaxabIe part. Add lines 2, 4, and 8. This amount is taxable to the person in whose name the 9. ______________
scholarship was received. ........................................................
1
However, a scholarship or fellowship grant isnt treated as tax free to the extent the student includes it in gross income (the student may or may not be
required to file a tax return) for the year the scholarship or fellowship grant is received and either:
- The scholarship or fellowship grant (or any part of it) must be applied (by its terms) to expenses (such as room and board) other than qualified
education expenses.
- The scholarship or fellowship grant (or any part of it) may be applied (by its terms) to expenses (such as room and board) other than qualified
education expenses.
You may be able to increase the combined value of an education credit and certain educational assistance if the student includes some or all
of the educational assistance in income in the year it is received. See Pub 970 and the Treasury fact sheet on pell grants for more information.
J-1
J-2
Highlights of Education Tax Benefits for Tax Year 2017
This chart highlights some differences among the benefits discussed in this publication. See the text for definitions and details. Dont rely
on this chart alone.
Caution: You generally cant claim more than one benefit for the same education expense.
Scholarships, Education
Fellowships, Qualified Exception to Employer- Business
Grants, and American Student Loan Tuition and Tuition Additional Tax Education Provided Deduction for
Tuition Opportunity Lifetime Interest Fees Coverdell Program on Early IRA Savings Bond Educational Work-Related
Reductions Credit Learning Credit Deduction Deduction ESA (QTP) Distributions Program Assistance Education
What is your Amounts Credits can Credits can Can deduct Can deduct Earnings not Earnings not No 10% Interest not Employer Can deduct
benefit? received may not reduce the reduce amount interest paid expenses taxed taxed additional tax on taxed benefits not expenses
be taxable amount of tax of tax you must early distribution taxed
you have to pay. pay
40% of the credit

may be
refundable
(limited to
$1,000 per
student).
What is the None $2,500 credit per $2,000 credit per $2,500 $4,000 $2,000 None Amount of Amount of $5,250 exclusion Amount of
annual limit? student tax return deduction contribution per qualified qualified qualifying
beneficiary education education work-related
expenses expenses education
expenses
What Course-related Course-related Amounts paid for Books None Books Books Books Payments to Books Transportation
expenses expenses such books, supplies, required books, Supplies Supplies Supplies Supplies Coverdell ESA Supplies
qualify besides as fees, books, and equipment etc., that must Equipment Equipment Equipment Equipment Equipment Travel
tuition and supplies, and be paid to the including Payments to
required equipment educational Room & board Expenses for Room & board if computer or QTP Other
enrollment institution, etc., special needs at least half-time peripheral necessary
fees? ARE required Transportation services student equipment, expenses
fees computer
Other Payments to Expenses for software and
necessary QTP special needs internet access
expenses and related
Higher Computer services if used
education: Room Equipment & primarily by the
and Board if at Technology student enrolled
least half-time at an eligible
student education
institution
Elem/sec (K-12)
education: Room & board if
Tutoring at least half-time
Room & board student
Uniforms
Transportation Expenses for
Computer special needs
access services
Supplementary
expenses
Highlights of Education Tax Benefits for Tax Year 2017
Scholarships, Education
Fellowships, Qualified Exception to Employer- Business
Grants, and American Student Loan Tuition and Tuition Additional Tax Education Provided Deduction for
Tuition Opportunity Lifetime Interest Fees Coverdell Program on Early IRA Savings Bond Educational Work-Related
Reductions Credit Learning Credit Deduction Deduction ESA (QTP) Distributions Program Assistance Education
What Undergraduate Undergraduate Undergraduate Undergraduate Undergraduate & Undergraduate Undergraduate Undergraduate Undergraduate Undergraduate Required by
education & graduate & graduate & graduate & graduate graduate & graduate & graduate & graduate & graduate & graduate employer or law
qualifies? K-12 Courses to K-12 to keep present
A graduate acquire or job, salary,
student can improve job skills status
claim the
American Maintain or
Opportunity improve job skills
Credit if and only
if the student
hasnt completed
the first four
years before the
beginning of the
tax year
What are some Must be in Can be claimed No other Must have been Cant claim both Assets must No other No other Applies only to No other Cant be to
of the other degree or for only 4 tax conditions at least half-time deduction & be distributed conditions conditions qualified series conditions meet minimum
conditions that vocational years (which student in education credit at age EE bonds issued educational
apply? program includes years degree program for same student 30 unless after 1989 or requirements
Hope credit in same year special needs series I bonds of preset trade/
Payment of claimed) beneficiary business
tuition and
required fees Must be Cant qualify you
must be enrolled at least for new trade/
allowed under half-time in business
the grant degree program
No felony drug
conviction(s)
Must not have

completed
first 4 years of
postsecondary
education before
end of preceding
tax year
In what No phaseout $80,000 - $56,000 - $65,000 - $60,000 - $95,000 - No phaseout No phaseout $76,000 - No phaseout No phaseout
income range $90,000 $66,000 $80,000 $80,000 $110,000 $91,000
do benefits
phase out? $160,000 - $112,000 - $135,000 - $130,000 - $190,000 - $113,950 -
$180,000 for $132,000 for $160,000 for $160,000 for $220,000 for $143,950 for
joint returns joint returns joint returns joint returns joint returns joint and
qualifying
widow(er) with a
dependent child
returns
Any nontaxable distribution is limited to the amount that doesnt exceed qualified education expenses.
Caution: Taxpayers filing MFS cannot claim deductions for the American Opportunity Credit, Lifetime Learning Credit, or Student Loan Interest Deductions.
J-3
Education Credits
Probe/Action: To determine if a taxpayer qualifies for the Education Credit.
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Deductions>Credits>Education Credits 1098T
Note: New law passed placing a Ban on claiming the American Opportunity credit. If taxpayers claim the American
Opportunity credit even though they are not eligible, they can be banned from claiming the credit up to 10 years.
Comparison of Education Credits

American Opportunity Credit Lifetime Learning Credit
Maximum credit Up to $2,500 credit per eligible student Up to $2,000 credit per return
Limit on modified adjusted $180,000 if married filing jointly; $90,000 if single, head of $132,000 if married filing jointly; $66,000 if single, head of
gross income (MAGI) household, or qualifying widow(er) household, or qualifying widow(er)
Refundable or 40% of credit may be refundable1; the rest is Nonrefundablecredit limited to the amount of tax you
nonrefundable nonrefundable must pay on your taxable income
Number of years of Available ONLY if the student had not completed the first 4 Available for all years of postsecondary education and for
postsecondary education years of postsecondary education before 2017 courses to acquire or improve job skills
Number of tax years credit Available ONLY for 4 tax years per eligible student Available for an unlimited number of tax years
available (including any year(s) Hope credit was claimed
Type of program required Student must be pursuing a program leading to a degree Student does not need to be pursuing a program leading
or other recognized education credential to a degree or other recognized education credential
Number of courses Student must be enrolled at least half-time for at least Available for one or more courses
one academic period beginning during 2017 (or the first
3 months of 2018 if the qualified expenses were paid in
2017
Felony drug conviction As of the end of 2017, the student had not been convicted Felony drug convictions do not make the student ineligible
of a felony for possessing or distributing a controlled
substance
Qualified expenses Tuition, required enrollment fees, and course materials Tuition and required enrollment fees (including amounts
that the student needs for a course of study whether or required to be paid to the institution for course-related
not the materials are bought at the educational institution books, supplies, and equipment)
as a condition of enrollment or attendance
Payments for academic Payments made in 2017 for academic periods beginning
periods in 2017 or beginning in the first 3 months of 2018
TIN needed by filing due Filers and students must have a TIN by the due date of
date their 2017 return (including extensions)
Educational institutions You must provide the educational institutions employer
EIN identification number (EIN) on your Form 8863
Who Can Claim the Credit?

Taxpayers who paid qualified educational expenses of higher education for an eligible student.
Taxpayers who paid the education expenses for a student enrolled at or attending an eligible educational institution. (to
determine if eligible, see http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation)
The eligible student is either the taxpayer, taxpayers spouse or a dependent for whom the taxpayer claims an exemption
on the tax return.
Note: Qualified education expenses paid by a dependent for which an exemption is claimed, or by a third party for that
dependent, are considered paid by the taxpayer. If a student isnt claimed as a dependent (even if eligible to be
claimed), only the student can claim an education credit no matter who paid the expenses. This doesnt entitle the
student to claim a personal exemption on his/her tax return. Anyone paying the expenses (even directly to the
institution) are considered to have given a gift to the student who in turn is treated as having paid the expenses.
1
None of the credit is refundable if (1) the taxpayer claiming the credit is (a) under age 18 or (b) age 18 at the end of the year,
and their earned income was less than one-half of their own support or (c) a full time student over 18 and under 24 and their
earned income was less than one-half of their own support; and (2) the taxpayer has at least one living parent, and; (3) the
taxpayer doesnt file a joint return
Note: There are two 4-year tests for American Opportunity Credit. First, the credit can be taken only four tax years. Second, the
student must not have completed four years of academic credit before the beginning of this tax year. Follow the examples in the
Who is Eligible Student for the American Opportunity Credit section in Publication 970 for additional information.
J-4
Education Credits (Continued)
Probe/Action: To determine if a taxpayer qualifies for the Education Credit.
Who Can Claim a Dependents Expenses?

If the taxpayer Then only
Claims an exemption on the return for a The taxpayer can claim the credit based on that
dependent who is an eligible student dependents expenses. The dependent cant claim the
credit.
Doesnt claim the exemption on the tax return The dependent can claim the credit. The taxpayer cant
claim the credit based on the dependents expenses.
Who Cant Claim the Credit?

Married filing separate filing status
Anyone listed as a dependent on another persons tax return
Taxpayers whose modified AGI is more than the allowable income limits
Taxpayer (or the spouse) was a nonresident alien for any part of the tax year unless one of the
exceptions listed in Publication 519 applies
What Expenses Qualify?

Expenses paid for an academic period starting in 2017 or the first 3 months of 2018
Expenses not refunded when the student withdraws from class
Expenses paid with the proceeds from a loan
What are Qualifying Expenses?

The term qualified tuition and related expenses is expanded for the American Opportunity credit
(AOC) to include expenditures for course materials. For this purpose, course materials are books,
supplies, and equipment needed for a course of study whether or not the materials are purchased
from the educational institution as a condition of enrollment or attendance.
What is Tax-Free Educational Assistance?

Tax-free parts of scholarships and fellowships
Pell grants (see chapter 1 of Publication 970)
Employer-provided educational assistance (see Publication 970)
Veterans educational assistance
Any other nontaxable payment (other than gifts or inheritances) received as educational
assistance
Note: Dont reduce the qualified education expenses by any scholarship or fellowship reported as
income on the students tax return if the use of the scholarship isnt restricted and used to pay
education expenses that arent qualified (such as room and board).
Note: New law enacted requiring taxpayers to have a Form 1098-T from an eligible educational
institution to claim Education benefits.
J-5
Determining Qualified Education Expenses
Box 1 may include non-taxable scholarship and grant amounts. Some students may choose to pay non-qualifying
expenses with scholarship/Pell Grant funds, making the scholarship/Pell Grant taxable. This is true even if the scholarship/
grant was paid directly to the school. This may increase the amount of qualifying expenses that can be used in calculating
an education credit.
Box 2 Shows the total amount billed in 2017 for qualified tuition and related expenses less any reduction in charges made
in 2017 that relate to those billed in 2017.
17
2017
2018
Determine the amount paid by verifying the payment received from the student account statement with the
amount shown in Box 1 or 2 of Form 1098-T. Remember to include books, supplies, materials and equipment if
claiming the American Opportunity Credit. Also remember to include out of pocket payments made by the student or on
the students behalf. This includes student loans, payments, credit cards and taxable portions of scholarships/grants.
Adjusted Qualified Education Expenses Worksheet (Form 8863 instructions)
1. Total qualified education expenses paid for on behalf of the student in 2017 for the academic period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5,500
2. Less adjustments:
a. Tax-free educational assistance received in 2017 allocable to the academic period. . . . . . . . . . 3,000
b. Tax-free educational assistance received in 2018 (and before you file your 2017 tax return)
allocable to the academic period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0
c. Refunds of qualified education expenses paid in 2017 if the refund is received in 2017 or in 2018
before you file your 2017 tax return . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0
3. Total adjustments (add lines 2a, 2b, and 2c) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,000
4. Adjusted qualified education expenses. Subtract line 3 from line 1. If zero or less, enter -0- . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,500
Example - Bill and Sue are eligible to claim the American Opportunity Credit for their daughter Sarah, who is in her first
year of college. They have a Form 1098-T with $10,000 in box 2 and a $3,000 Pell grant in box 5. During your interview
with Bill and Sue, you determine that $5,000 was paid in September 2017 for the fall semester; $3,000 was paid by Pell
Grant and $2,000 was paid by loan proceeds. Also, $5,000 was billed in December for the Spring 2018 semester, which
was paid in January 2018. They paid $500 for books in 2017. To calculate the eligible expenses for their credit, take the
$5,000 ($3,000 grant + $2,000 loan) paid in 2017 plus the $500 for books and enter on line 1 of the worksheet above.
The $3,000 will be entered on line 2a. The line 3 amount would be $3,000. Subtracting line 3 from line 1, you get qualified
education expenses of $2,500. In this same example, if the taxpayers opted to include all the income as wages, they
wouldnt have any adjustments to subtract to determine their expenses.
Note: If the student doesnt have a copy of their student account statement, ask them to go online thru their
college or university to get this information.
J-6
Entering Education Benefits
Taxslayer Navigation: Federal Section>Deductions>Credits Menu>Education Credits>1040 view line 50
xxxx
xxxx
xxxx
Note: TaxSlayer will allow you to compare

the education benefits and determine the
largest refund using each benefit.
If the taxpayer was under age 24 at the

end of the year and met the conditions as
outlined in the student under age 24 chart
in this tab, they cant take the refundable
American Opportunity credit.
See determining qualified expenses page

earlier in this tab.
For lifetime learning credit-course books,
materials, supplies not included unless
paid directly to institution as condition of
enrollment.
J-7
Entering Education Benefits (continued)
Taxslayer Navigation: Federal Section>Deductions>Credits Menu>Education Credits>1040 view line 50
Only the taxpayer is eligible if he

or she claims the student as a
dependent. Only the student is
eligible if he or she isnt claimed as a
dependent (even if he or she can be
claimed) - no matter who pays.
For the American Opportunity credit

only, qualified tuition & related
expenses include books, supplies &
equipment needed for the course,
whether or not they were purchased
from the institution as a condition
of enrollment. Computers, however,
can only be included IF they are
a requirement for enrollment or
attendance.
Note: The following arent qualifying

expenses for Education Credits:
room and board, insurance, medical,
transportation, or personal expenses,
even if the amount must be paid to the
institution as a condition of enrollment
or attendance. If the educational
expenses are associated with sports,
games, hobbies, or other noncredit
courses, see Publication 970 for more
information.
Note: See Disallowance of Certain

Refundable Credits in the EIC tab if the
taxpayer received a letter saying they
had to complete Form 8862.
J-8
Student Under Age 24 Claiming
American Opportunity Credit
1. Were you under 24 at the end of 2017? If no, stop here; you do qualify to claim part of
the allowable American opportunity credit as a
refundable credit.
If yes, go to question 2.
2. Were you over 18 at the end of 2017? If yes, go to question 3.
If no, go to question 4.
3. Were you a full-time student (defined If no, stop here; you do qualify to claim part of
later) for 2017? your allowable American opportunity credit as a
refundable credit.
4. Were you 18 at the end of 2017? If yes, go to question 5.
If no, go to question 6.
5. Was your earned income (defined later) If no, stop here; you do qualify to claim part of
less than one-half of your support for 2017? your allowable American opportunity credit as a
refundable credit.
6. Was either of your parents alive at the If no, stop here; you do qualify to claim part of
end of 2017? your allowable American opportunity credit as a
refundable credit.
7. Are you filing a joint return for 2017? If no, you do not qualify to claim part of your
allowable American opportunity credit as a
refundable credit.
If yes, you do qualify to claim part of your

allowable American opportunity credit as a
refundable credit.

Earned income. Earned income includes wages, salaries, professional fees, and other payments received for
personal services actually performed. Earned income includes the part of any scholarship or fellowship that
represents payment for teaching, research, or other services performed by the student that are required as a condition
for receiving the scholarship or fellowship. Earned income does not include that part of the compensation for personal
services rendered to a corporation which represents a distribution of earnings or profits rather than a reasonable
allowance as compensation for the personal services actually rendered.
Full-time student. Solely for purposes of determining whether a scholarship is considered support, you were a full-
time student for 2017 if during any part of any 5 calendar months during the year you were enrolled as a full-time
student at an eligible educational institution (defined earlier), or took a full-time, on-farm training course given by such
an institution or by a state, county, or local government agency.
J-9
Notes
J-10
K. Finishing
the Return
Completing the e-File Section
e-File Process
When all the data has been entered, complete the e-File Section. The return should not be filed (e-filed or as a paper
return) until the e-File Section has been completed.
If the return might include Earned Income Credit, American Opportunity Credit or Additional Child Tax Credit, there will be
due diligence questions to answer. See Tab I for instructions on answering due diligence questions.
After the due diligence questions, you will come to the e-File Section. There are seven sections on the first page:
Return Type
Tax Preparation and E-File Information
State Return(s)
Taxpayer Bank Account Information
Third Party Designee Info
Questions
State ID (Optional) (Shows only if there is a state return)
Return Type
Select type of federal return
Click here if state return is to be E-filed,

but federal will not be filed at all.
Return Types with a Refund

Electronic Mailed = E-filed with refund check mailed to
taxpayer
Direct Deposit = E-filed with direct deposit
Paper Return with Direct Deposit
Paper Return = Paper return with check mailed to
taxpayer
Return Types with an Amount Owed
Mail Payment = E-filed without direct debit
Tax Preparation and E-File Information Direct Debit = E-file with direct debit
Select type of federal return
Paper Return = Paper return with check included
K-1
Completing the e-File Section (continued)
State Return(s)
Enter type of state return
State Return Types with a Refund
Paper Return = Paper return with check mailed to

taxpayer
Electronic Mailed = E-filed with refund check mailed to
taxpayer
Paper Return with Direct Deposit
Direct Deposit = E-filed with direct deposit
State Return Types with an Amount Owed

Paper Return = Paper return with check included
Electronic State Balance Due = E-filed without direct debit
Taxpayer Bank Account Information

If direct deposit or direct debit is selected for
either federal or state return, the Taxpayer Bank
Account Information screen will appear.
In this section, the preparer inputs the bank routing and account number for direct deposit of refund or automatic
withdrawal of balance due.
NOTE: See Pointers for Direct Input both the routing and account
Deposit of Refunds later in this tab. number twice on this screen
Caution: Use original source

Input the name of the bank as
document for input.
stated on the check.
K-2
TaxSlayer Navigation: (Administrator) Configuration>Office Setup
Split Refund Option
When the taxpayer elects to direct deposit his or her refund

into two or three accounts or to purchase saving bonds, you
will need to answer additional questions in the e-file section.
First, someone with Administrator privileges needs to go to

Configuration>Office Setup and mark the box for Offer 8888.
This will allow all preparers at that site to offer Form 8888.
When you wish to go back to double-entry of bank routing and

account numbers, the Administrator must uncheck this box.
K-3
Purchase Savings Bonds
From Split Refund Screen, savings bonds can be purchased.
Afterwards, if you wish to go back to double-entry of bank routing and account numbers, the Administrator must uncheck
the 8888 box in Configuration>Office Setup.
Third Party Designee Info
Third party designee info can be completed if the taxpayer wishes, but the designee is never the volunteer preparer.
K-4
Questions
Answer national and local questions
Use these fields for information that is helpful to your site. For example, these fields could be used to enter the preparers
name and/or new versus returning taxpayers. These fields are used by the military to report rank, grade, enlisted/retired,
etc
After the end of the tax season a custom report can be created.
State ID (Optional)
Appears only if there is a state return
Select drivers license or ID,

license number,
date issued,
date expires and
issuing state.
If taxpayers license has expired, select
None Available. Some states require
a drivers license number to e-file. See
state requirement and work around if
applicable.
Select SAVE.
K-5
PIN Guidelines
The Practitioner PIN method is the only electronic signature method for taxpayers using TaxSlayer software. The ERO
may enter the taxpayers PINs in the electronic return record before the taxpayers sign Form 8879, but the taxpayers must
sign and date the appropriate form before the ERO originates the electronic submission of the return. The taxpayer must
sign and date the Form 8879 after reviewing the return and ensuring the tax return information on the form matches the
information on the return.
Practitioner PIN Guidelines

The PIN can be any five numbers except all zeros. If filing a joint return, a PIN is needed for the taxpayer and spouse.
How to use the Practitioner PIN in TaxSlayer

98765 is defaulted in Office Setup
The information is pulled from Office Setup to Part III of Form 8879
Form 8453, Transmittal for an IRS E-file Return

Form 8453 will be used to transmit specific supporting documents that cant be e-filed. Those paper forms, schedules and
supporting documents include:
Form 2848, Power of Attorney and Declaration of Representative (or POA that states the agent is granted authority to
sign the return)
Form 8332, Release / Revocation of Release of Claim to Exemption for Child by Custodial Parent (or certain pages
from a divorce decree or separation agreement, that went into effect after 1984 and before 2009) (see instructions)
Form 8949, Sales and Other Dispositions of Capital Assets (or a statement with the same information), if you elect
not to report your transactions electronically on Form 8949. Form 8453 is to be mailed to the Austin Submission
Processing Center within three business days.
Mail Form 8453 to:

Attn: Shipping and Receiving, 0254
Receipt and Control Branch
Austin, TX 73344-0254
TIP - Alternatively, a PDF of the attachments can be attached to the electronic return. In that case, no Form 8453 is
required. To do this, scan the document to create the PDF. However, only select forms can be uploaded into TaxSlayer.
K-6
Quality Review Process
Follow local procedures to request quality review.
If designated reviewers open the return

at the own stations click Ready for
Review.
If local procedure involves setting return

tags, click here to set them.
K-7
TaxSlayer Basic Quality Review Process
Below is guidance on one method that can be used to conduct a thorough Quality Review using TaxSlayer.
To promote accuracy, per Quality Site Requirement #2: Intake/Interview & Quality Review Process, this process must
include an interview with the taxpayer while reviewing Form 13614-C, Intake/Interview & Quality Review Sheet, all
supporting documents, and the completed tax return.
The Quality Reviewer should verify the tax return is within the volunteers certification level. If the tax return does not fall
within the appropriate certification level, refer the taxpayer to another IRS tax law-certified volunteer preparer with the
appropriate certification level or to another site that prepares returns at that certification level.
In addition, at minimum the Quality Review (QR) process should include:

Explaining the tax preparation process that includes encouraging questions throughout the interview process
Verifying all questions in Parts I-VI are completed and Unsure answers have been addressed and changed to
Yes or No
Reviewing all supporting documentation provided by the taxpayer (Forms W-2, 1099, 1095, payment receipts,
etc.)
Validating the accuracy of the filing status and dependency determinations by using the resource tools and, if
applicable, completing the volunteer section for individuals listed in Part II; Question 2
Exercising due diligence by using probing questions to ensure complete information is gathered
Ensuring the following basic Quality Review concerns are addressed:
1. A complete Intake/Interview Sheet was used to prepare this tax return.

2. Name(s) and SSNs/ITINs for taxpayer(s) match the supporting documents.
3. The taxpayer(s) address and Date of Birth match the Intake/Interview Sheet and have been
confirmed with the taxpayer.
4. Filing status was correctly determined.
5. Dependent information is correctly shown including names, SSNs/ITINs, and DOBs.
6. All income indicated on the Intake/Interview Sheet and W-2s/1099s is shown.
7. Any Adjustments to Income are correctly reported.
8. The complete return reflects the correct standard deduction unless itemized deductions were used.
If itemized deductions were used, the Schedule A is complete and accurate based on supporting
documents.
9. The non-refundable credits are correctly reported, due diligence.
10. All payments from W-2s and 1099s and estimated tax payments are correct.
11. The refundable credits are correctly reported including the EIC determination based on the
information provided, due diligence.
12. If direct deposit or debit was elected, information on the return matches the taxpayers checking/
saving account and routing information.
Due Diligence:
All IRS tax law-certified volunteers are required to exercise due diligence. This means, as a volunteer, you are required
to do your part when preparing or quality reviewing a tax return to ensure the information on the tax return is correct and
complete.
Doing your part includes: confirming a taxpayers (and spouse, if applicable) identity and providing top-quality service by
helping them understand and meet their tax responsibilities.
Generally, as an IRS tax law-certified volunteer, you can rely in good faith on information from a taxpayer without requiring
documentation as verification. For more information, refer to Publication 5166, IRS Volunteer Quality Site Requirements.
K-8
(continued)
Quality Review using TaxSlayer: Start with your TaxSlayer Online User Guide, Review Process, pages 98-107 in printed
version.
NOTE: Page numbers may differ from the online version.
Return Open: After return is prepared and still opened by the preparer, select the drop down on the Submission page and
click the drop down option next to Print Return. The Quality Reviewer may select the Quality Review 20XX print set.
Although TaxSlayer call these print sets, returns can be viewed without printing using Adobe.
NOTE: A peer-to-peer reviewer may use the Return Open process.
Return Closed: If preparer closes return, the Quality Reviewer should select the printer icon drop down list from the
Client List page. This list will include the printer options for the Quality Reviewer.
NOTE: A designated reviewer may use the Return Closed process.
Selecting Quality Review 2017 print set while return is opened or closed, the Quality Reviewer will be able to review all
documents included in the tax return. Compare the IRS Form 13614-C to the embedded TaxSlayer Intake/Interview sheet
to verify the documents included in the tax return.
K-9
(continued)
Below is an example of the TaxSlayer Intake/Interview sheet that encompasses two pages of the TaxSlayer print set.
XXXX TAXPAYER
XXXX TAXPAYER
YOUR CITY, ST, ZIP
TIMMY TAXPAYER XXXX

JENNY TAXPAYER XXXX
JULIE TAXPAYER XXXX
The page above shows:

1. Name(s) and SSNs/ITINs for taxpayer(s)
2. The taxpayer(s) address and Date of Birth of all persons listed on the tax return
3. Filing status
4. Dependent information including names, SSNs/ITINs, and DOBs
K-10
(continued)
5. All income indicated on the Intake/Interview Sheet and W-2s/1099, etc.is shown
6. Any Adjustments to Income
7. Standard deduction or itemized deductions were used, showing Schedule A if used
8. Non-refundable credits are correctly reported, due diligence
9. Payments from W-2s and 1099s and estimated tax payments, etc.
10. Refundable credits, including the EIC determination based on the information provided, due diligence
11. If direct deposit or debit was elected, viewing the FED TYPE (FED TYPE definitions are available on
the VITA/TCE blog using keyword search return types)
Page two of the TaxSlayer Intake/Interview sheet below shows a Summary of income documents included in the return.
For example, Forms 1099, W-2, etc.
TAXPAYER XXXX
TAXPAYER XXXX
01/10/2018
EMPLOYEE 1
Once the basic Intake/Interview documents are reviewed, the Quality Reviewer should review the other pages included
in the print set of the tax return. These pages include forms, schedules, and worksheets required to complete the Quality
Review of the tax return. Once the Quality Reviewer confirms the accuracy of the return, the return should be marked
complete by selecting the Mark Complete check box. By selecting this option, TaxSlayer makes the return available for
transmission to the TaxSlayer Processing Center.
NOTE: The Quality Review 2017 print set includes many pages. The site has the option, to create a unique print set. To
create a unique print set, see TaxSlayer User guide, Configuring Printing, pages 44-48 in the printed version.
K-11
Return Signature
A return isnt considered valid unless it is signed. Both spouses must sign if the return is filed jointly. The return should be
dated and the occupation lines should be completed.
Childs Return Incapacitated Spouse

If a child cant sign his or her name, the parent, guardian, If one spouse is incapable of signing the joint return and
or another legally responsible person must sign the childs hasnt given someone a POA to sign on their behalf, the
name in the space provided followed by the words By other (capable) spouse may be able to sign on behalf of
(parent or guardian signature), parent or guardian for their incapacitated spouse. A statement attached to the
minor child. return may be required. See Pub 501.
Deceased Taxpayer
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Personal Information PLUS Federal Section>Miscellaneous
Forms>Claim a Refund Due to a Deceased Taxpayer
If a taxpayer died before filing the return, the taxpayers spouse or personal representative will have to file and sign a
return for the person who died. A personal representative can be an executor, administrator, or anyone who is in charge of
the decedents property.
If the taxpayer didnt have to file a return but had tax withheld, a return must be filed to get a refund.
If filing a paper return, write Deceased, the Form 2848, Power of Attorney and Declaration
decedents name, and the date of death across the top of Representative is no longer valid because the
of the tax return. taxpayer is deceased and therefore, Form 56 or new
Form 2848 signed by estate executor or representative
TaxSlayer will automatically note on the top of Form must be completed.
1040 the decedents name and date of death.
Claiming a Refund for a Deceased Person
If the spouse died during the year and the surviving If a surviving spouse is filing a joint return with the
spouse didnt remarry, a joint return can be filed. decedent, file the tax return to claim the refund.
If no one has yet been appointed as executor or Court-appointed representatives should file the return
administrator, the surviving spouse can sign the return and attach a copy of the certificate that shows their
for the deceased spouse and enter Filing as surviving appointment.
spouse in the area where the return is signed.
All other filers requesting the decedents refund should
If the spouse died before signing the return, the file the return and attach Form 1310.
executor or administrator must sign the return for the
deceased spouse.
K-12
Power of Attorney
1. Read Pub 17 on Power of Attorney & Signatures. For additional details, see Pub 947 and Form 2848 Instructions.
2. See Tab O for TaxSlayer detailed instructions.
3. Attach a copy of the taxpayers original paper POA to a copy of Form 8453 for the site to send to the IRS once the
return is accepted. Alternatively, you may scan the POA to a PDF and attach the PDF to the return prior to creating the
e-file.
Even when the taxpayers agent is using a power of attorney different than Form 2848, follow the same process.
Printing the Tax Return

TaxSlayer Navigation: e-File Section>last screen (Submission)>Print Return
A copy of the return can be printed by selecting the Printer Icon located on the Client Tax Return row from the Office Client
List. A copy of the tax return can also be printed from within the return. The print location from inside the return is located
on the Submission page under the e-File section. After all required information has been entered on the E-file page, you
will click on Save. The program will display the Submission page. From this page click on the drop down arrow, select the
appropriate print set, and click on Print Return. Once the PDF is generated you can choose the pages you wish to print
and the number of copies you wish.
Distributing Copies of Returns

Taxpayer ERO
Form 1040 with all forms/schedules including signed Form 8453 and attachments
Form 8879 and Form 8453, if applicable
Organize the taxpayers copy of the return according Paper Federal Return
to the attachment sequence at the top right corner of Signed Form 1040 with all forms/schedules
each form. Any supplemental schedules are put at the Organize the federal copy of the return according to
end. the attachment sequence at the top right corner of
Form 8332, if applicable each form. Any supplemental schedules are put at the
Original Power of Attorney, if applicable end.
State forms/schedules, as applicable
All other taxpayer documents including Paper State Return
Form(s) W-2 and Form(s) 1099 Signed state return with all forms and schedules.
Attach a copy of the federal return if required by state
instructions.
Where to File Paper Returns

When a paper return must be filed, advise the taxpayer The taxpayer must be given an exact copy of the paper
to sign and mail the federal return to the applicable IRS return to be filed. Additional copies of the schedules
address for the state where the taxpayer lives. See Tab P and worksheets should also be provided. If applicable,
for a list of addresses. State income tax returns should be signed and mailed
to the appropriate address for that state. State mailing
address can be found on the state tax form or on the tax
departments website.
K-13
Balance Due Returns (amount owed on return)
Form 1040, 1040A, or 1040EZ Instructions for additional information)
General Information
Taxpayers dont have to pay if balance due is less than $1.
Payment in full is due by the April filing due date, to avoid interest and penalties.
Taxpayer should file his or her return by the April filing due date, to avoid a failure-to-file penalty.
There are separate penalties for filing late and paying late. The late filing penalty is higher.
Advise taxpayers to file the return on time, even if they cant pay the full amount owed. They should pay as much
as they can with the return to reduce penalties and interest.
Payment Methods
1. Electronic Funds Withdrawal
E-filing allows taxpayers to file their return early and schedule their payment for withdrawal from their checking or
savings account on a future date up to the April filing due date.
2. IRS Direct Pay

IRS direct pay at irs.gov is a free one-time payment from your checking account to the IRS. Use this secure
service to pay your tax bill or make an estimated tax payment directly from your checking or savings account at no
cost to you. Youll receive instant confirmation that your payment has been submitted. Just follow the easy steps
below. Bank account information isnt retained in IRS systems after payments are made.
It takes just 5 easy steps to make a payment:
Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Step 5

Provide your tax Verify your Enter Your Review and Print or record
information identity payment electronically your online
information sign the confirmation
transaction number
3. Check or money order payments

Dont attach the payment to the return.
Refer to instructions on Form 1040V, Payment Voucher.
Submit the payment with a properly completed Form 1040V.
No cash payments.
4. Credit card payments
American Express, Discover, Mastercard, or Visa cards are accepted.
A convenience fee will be charged by the service providers.
Visit IRS.gov/E-pay or call service provider for details.
1-888-UPAY-TAXTM (1-888-872-9829) 1-888-PAY-1040TM (1-888-729-1040) 844-872-9829 Payment 855-508-0160

1-877-754-4413 (Customer Service) 1-888-658-5465 (Customer Service) Live Operator Service 844-825-8729
www.officialpayments.com/fed www.PAY1040.com
K-14
bove prints on all proofs including departmental reproduction proofs. MUST be removed before printing.
Pointers
Pointersfor
forDirect
Direct Deposit
Deposit of Refunds
of Refunds
ines 74a Through 74d 1. Using a check or documentation from the financial 4. Double-check the RTN of the financial institution if:
OSIT
institution as proof of account, verify:
is not an IRA contribution for 2010. In that Ask your financial institution for the
You are unfamiliar with the financial institution.
e. youRouting
case, must file anTransit
amended 2010 Numberreturn (RTN). Thenumber
correct routing RTN tomust enter on line 74b (Some types of accounts that exist through
ose direct and reduce any IRA deduction and any re- if:
contain 9 digits
tirement savings contributions credit youand begin with 01 through 12
The routing number on a deposit slip brokerage firms cant accept direct deposits.)
ple, safe, secure claimed.or 21 through 32.
fund deposited is different from the routing number on The RTN is for a credit union, which is payable
your checks,
ur checking or DepositorYou and your Account Number(DAN).
spouse, if filing The DAN through another financial institution. The
Your deposit is to a savings account
luding an
t arrangement ! canjointly, each may be able to
be upup to
contribute 17 characters.
to $5,000 ($6,000
that does not allow
Include hyphens you to write checks, or taxpayer should contact his or her credit union
mation about IRAs
CAUTION
if age 50 or older at the end special
of Your checks state they are payable
but omit spaces
2010) to a traditional IRA or Roth IRA for
and throughsymbols.
a financial Dont
institution different for the correct RTN.
2010. The include
limit forthe 2011check numberfrom
is also $5,000 or the
the
ing account.
onedollar
at whichamount
you have your check-
5. Savings Bonds - Taxpayers can buy U.S. savings
($6,000 if age 50 or older at the end of
o directly deposit the 2011). You onmay canceled
owe a penalty checks.
if your con- On the sample
Line 74c check bonds with their federal tax refund. Even if the
74a to your checking tributions exceed these limits.
ncluding an IRA, at a below, the account number is 20202086.
Check the appropriate box for the type of taxpayer doesnt have a bank account or a
l institution (such as a For moreuse information on IRAs,slipsee Pub. account. Do not check more than one box.
rage firm, or credit
2.590.Dont a deposit for proof of RTN as
If the deposit is to an account such as an Treasury account they can elect this option.
States: this may not be the same RTN IRA, health savings
used for direct account, brokerage ac- Taxpayers can make bond purchases for
74b through 74d (if TreasuryDirect. You can request a de- count, or other similar account, ask your
deposited to only one deposit.
posit of your refundFor direct
(or part deposit
of it) to a into a savings
financial account,
institution whether you shouldthemselves, add beneficiaries or co-owners, and
TreasuryDirect online accountobtainto buy check the Checking or Savings box.
the
U.S. taxpayer
Treasury should
marketable securities and a statement
You must checkfrom the correct box to ensuremake bond purchases for someone other than
n line 74a and attach your deposit is and
accepted. For athemselves. Refer to Form 8888 or www.IRS.gov
ant to split the direct savings
the bonds.
financialFor more information, go
institution totoverify the routing
www.treasurydirect.gov. TreasuryDirect online account, check the
d into more than one account number for direct deposit. SavingsFor box. direct for more details.
part of your refund to
vings bonds. Form 8888. You can have your refund di- Line if 74d
deposit into a checking
rectly deposited into more than one account account, the taxpayer 6. Remember the split refund option: If a taxpayer
t your refund directly or use it to buy up to $5,000
doesnt have a cancelled check, in paper series The account number can be up to 17 char-
ount, do not check the I savings bonds. You do not need a actersthe (bothtaxpayer
numbers and letters). Includechooses to direct deposit his or her refund into two
w a line through the should also
TreasuryDirect contact
account to do their
this. For hyphensinstitution.
financial but omit spaces and special sym-or three accounts, you will need to complete Form
nd 74d. We will send more information, see the Form 8888 in- bols. Enter the number from left to right
3.structions.
Entering the incorrect RTN and/or and leave DAN boxes blank. On the8888, Allocation of Refund (Including Savings
will result
any unused
sample check below, the account number is
Deposit? in a
Line 74a 46 week delay of the refund, or it may
20202086. Do not include go the check num-Bond Purchases).
fund faster by direct into some elses ber.
by check. You cannot file Form 8888account.
to split yourIf the direct deposit is
refund into more than one account or buy If the direct deposit to your account(s) is
e secure. There is no voided,
paper a paper
series I savings bonds check
if Form 8379 willis automatically
different from the beamount
mailed you expected,
st or stolen. filed
venient. You do not
towith
theyour return. on the electronic
address you will
taxreceive
form.an explanation in the mail Caution: Direct deposit of a taxpayers
about 2 weeks after your refund is depos-
o the bank to deposit Line 74b
The routing number must be nine digits.
ited.
Reasons Your Direct Deposit
! refund is to be made to an account (or
ars. It costs the gov- accounts) only in the taxpayers name.
The first two digits must be 01 through 12 Request May Be Rejected
d by direct deposit. or 21 through 32. On the sample check
Caution: Advise taxpayers their refund may
e a joint return and below, the routing number Financial
is 250250025.institutions
If any of the generally dontyour direct
following apply,
Tony and JenniferallowMaple wouldrefund
a joint deposit request
use that to be deposited into an will be rejected and a check only be deposited directly into his/her own
routing!number unless their financial insti-
box on line 74a and will be sent instead.
m 8888 or fill in lines individual account. The IRS isnt responsible if account(s).
gh 74d, your spouse tution instructed them to use a different Any numbers or letters on lines 74b
of the refund. routing number for direct deposits.
a financial institution through 74d
refuses are crossed
a direct out or whited out.
deposit. Taxpayers federal and state refunds cant
our refund (or part of be deposited into VITA/TCE Volunteer or any
to a traditional IRA,
A, but not a SIMPLE associated partners personal or business
ish the IRA at a bank bank/debit card accounts.
itution before you re- TONY MAPLE 1234
JENNIFER MAPLE
Make sure your direct 123 Pear Lane 15-0000/0000
pted. You must also Anyplace, GA 00000
E
custodian of your ac-

PL
which the deposit is to PAY TO THE Note: Dont use deposit slip as proof
e trustee or custodian ORDER OF $
M
osit for 2010). If you of account because the routing

SA
custodian can assume DOLLARS

year during which you Routing Account number may be different than on a
For example, if you number number
during 2011 and do
ANYPLACE BANK
Anyplace, GA 00000
Do not include check.
(line 74b) (line 74d) the check number.
e or custodian in ad- For
custodian can assume

RA is for 2011. If you |:250250025|:202020

"86". 1234
it to be for 2010, you
deposit was actually
by the due date of the The routing and account numbers may be in different places on your check.
d to extensions). If the CAUTION
y that date, the deposit Note: To combat fraud and identity theft, IRS permits a maximum of three refunds to be electronically
ation or forms? See page 93.
deposited - 70a -single financial account.
into
The fourth and subsequent refunds automatically will convert to a paper refund check and be mailed to the
taxpayer.
K-15
Balance Due Returns (continued)
5. EFTPS (Electronic Federal Tax Payment System)
Taxpayers can use EFTPS to pay their federal taxes, but they must enroll first. EFTPS is a fast, easy, convenient
and secure service provided free by the Department of Treasury. For more information or to enroll visit IRS.gov/E-
pay or call EFTPS Customer Service at 1-800-316-6541 (for individual payments). TTY/TDD help is available by
calling 1-800-733-4829.
Note: You must have a valid Social Security Number (SSN) to use this application. This application cant
accommodate Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs)
6. PayNearMe
Through a partnership with OfficialPayments.com and the PayNearMe Company, taxpayers can now make a cash
payment without the need of a bank account or credit card at more than 7,000 7-Eleven stores nationwide. To find
a location near you, visit the PayNearMe locations
Web page.
Visit the Payments Options Web page on IRS.gov for the most current information about tax payments.
What if the taxpayer cant pay?

Can you pay in full within 120 days? If taxpayers can pay the full amount they owe within 120 days, go to irs.gov
to establish your request to pay in full. By doing this, taxpayers can avoid paying the fee to set up an installment
agreement.
Applying online for a payment agreement. If the taxpayers balance due isnt more than $50,000, the taxpayer
can apply online for a payment agreement instead of filing Form 9465. To do that, go to IRS.gov and enter Online
Payment Agreement or OPA in the Search box.
The taxpayer can request an extension of time to pay if paying the tax by the due date will be an undue hardship.
For details see Form 1127 (out of scope).
Offer in Compromise
If the taxpayer cant pay through an installment agreement and/or by liquidating assets, they may be eligible for an Offer
in Compromise (offer). An offer is an agreement between the taxpayer and the IRS that settles a tax debt for less than the
full amount owed. The IRS may accept an offer if:
The IRS agrees that the tax debt may not be accurate,
The taxpayer has insufficient assets and income to pay the amount due in full, or
The taxpayer has exceptional circumstances and paying the amount due would cause an economic hardship or
would be unjust.
The taxpayer can use the Offer in Compromise Pre-Qualifier tool located at irs.gov (key word offer) to determine if an
offer is a realistic option to resolve their balance due. The questionnaire format assists in gathering the information needed
and provides instant feedback as to eligibility. To apply for an offer, the taxpayer must read and complete the forms located
in the Offer in Compromise booklet, Form 656-B. The Form 656-B, Offer in Compromise, may be found at www.irs.gov
(key word offer).
K-16
Balance Due Returns (continued)
How can a taxpayer avoid a balance due in the future?

TIP: The more withholding allowances claimed, the less taxes withheld.
If the taxpayer didnt have enough withheld from his/her paycheck or pension income and there is an amount owed
on the current return:
Advise the taxpayer to access the Withholding Calculator at IRS.gov.
On the Form W-4/Form W-4P, the taxpayer can reduce the number of allowances or request an additional
amount to be withheld.
Advise the taxpayer to submit a revised Form W-4 to the employer. For pension income taxpayers should
submit a revised Form W-4P to the pension payer. Form W-4V is used to request withholding from Social
Security or certain other federal government payments.
If the taxpayer had income that wasnt subject to withholding (such as self-employment, interest income, dividend
income, or capital gain income):
Explain estimated taxes to the taxpayer. In TaxSlayer, add Form 1040-ES, Estimated Tax for Individuals,
and complete it. Discuss with taxpayer(s) whether to use the minimum required amount or the total amount
expected to be due.
Advise the taxpayer to review Publication 505, Tax Withholding and Estimated Tax.
Forms or Publications can be obtained from irs.gov.
If the taxpayer is receiving advanced premium tax credits, they should notify the Marketplace when they have any
significant change to income, family size or a life event.
NOTE: This information only applies to federal balance due returns. For state information, consult the applicable state.
K-17
Estimated Tax Payments
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Payments & Estimates>Vouchers for Next Years Estimated
Payments; or Keyword: 1040-ES
Enter amount to be printed on

each voucher.
Taxpayer can make pen and

ink changes to a voucher if the
situation changes during the year.
Vouchers will be generated when the return is printed.
NOTE: When the IRS due date for doing any act from filing a return, paying taxes, etc. falls on Saturday, Sunday, or a
legal holiday, the due date is delayed until the next business day.
You dont have to make the payment due January 15, if you file your current tax return by February 16, and pay the entire
balance due with your return.
K-18
L. Resident / NR
Alien
Resident or Nonresident Alien Decision Tree
Start here to determine your residency status for federal income tax purposes
Were you a lawful permanent resident of the United States (had a green card)
at any time during the current tax year?
YES NO
Were you physically present in the United States on at least 31 days during
the current tax year? 3
YES
NONRESIDENT Alien for U.S. Tax purposes 5

NO
RESIDENT Alien for U.S. Tax purposes 1, 2
Were you physically present in the United States on at least 183 days during the
3 year period consisting of the current tax year and the preceding 2 years,
counting all days of presence in the current tax year,

1/3 of the days of presence in the first preceding year, and
1/6 of the days of presence in the second preceding year? 3
YES
NO4
Were you physically present in the United States on at least 183 days during
the current tax year? 3
NO
YES
Can you show that for the current tax year you have a tax home in a foreign country
and have a closer connection to that country than to the United States?
(*Out of Scope, Form 8840 required)
NO YES*
1 If this is your first year of residency, you may have a dual status for the year.
See DualStatus Aliens in Pub 519. (OutofScope)
2 In some circumstances you may still be considered a nonresident alien and eligible for benefits under an income tax treaty
between the U.S. and your country. Check the provision of the treaty carefully. (OutofScope)
3 See Days of Presence in the United States in Pub 519 for days that do not count as days of presence in the U.S. (Exempt
individuals such as students, scholars, and others temporarily in the U.S. under an F, J, M, or Q visas immigration status do
not count their days of presence in the U.S. for specified periods of time.)
4 If you meet the substantial presence test for the following year, you may be able to choose treatment as a U.S. resident
alien for part of the current tax year. See Substantial Presence Test under Resident Aliens and FirstYear Choice under Dual
Status Aliens in Pub. 519. (OutofScope)
5 Nonresident students from Barbados, Hungary, and Jamaica, as well as trainees from Jamaica, may qualify for an election
to be treated as a U.S. Resident for tax purposes under their tax treaty provisions with the U.S. A formal, signed, election
statement must be attached to the Form 1040 (preparation of the statement is Out of Scope). (It continues until formally
revoked.)
L-1
Resident or Nonresident Alien Decision Tree
(continued)
If after using the Resident or Nonresident Alien Decision Tree (Page L-1) you have determined a taxpayer is a Resident
Alien for U.S. Tax Purposes, and does not meet any of the exceptions that would be outside of the scope of the VITA
program, select one of the filing statuses listed under the Basic Information Section in TaxSlayer Pro. A Resident Alien is
treated like a U.S. Citizen when determining filing status.
If after using the Resident or Nonresident Alien Decision Tree (Page L-1) you have determined a taxpayer is a
Nonresident Alien for U.S. Tax Purposes, under the Basic Information Section in TaxSlayer Pro, select Nonresident
Alien, if you have certified under the Foreign Student and Scholar Module and the taxpayers circumstances are within
the scope of the Foreign Student and Scholar VITA program. After selecting the Nonresident Alien filing status, you
will be given six (6) choices; Single resident of Canada or Mexico or single U.S. national, Other single nonresident
alien, Married resident of Canada or Mexico or married U.S. national, Married resident of South Korea, Other married
nonresident alien, or Qualified widower(er) with dependent child. You will only complete a tax return for a Nonresident
Alien if you have certified on the Foreign Student and Scholar Module, and at least 1 other person at your site, who is
also certified on the Foreign Student and Scholar Module, can quality review the return.
Be sure to have the taxpayer complete Form 13614NR and use Pub 4011 to conduct the Quality Review.
Electronic Filing of Returns with Valid ITIN

TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Income>W-2; 1040 View Line 7; Keyword W2
Returns can be electronically filed when the taxpayer has an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) but has
a Form W-2 with a Social Security Number (SSN) not belonging to that taxpayer.
1. The taxpayers ITIN must be entered on the personal information screen in the space provided for the taxpayers,
or if applicable, spouses social security number.
2. When completing the Form W-2 in TaxSlayer, enter the SSN shown on the paper Form W-2. The Internal
Revenue Service requires the manual key entry of the Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) as it appears on
Form W-2 received from the employer for all taxpayers with ITINs who are reporting wages. The ITIN that was
entered when the return was started wont auto-populate the TIN on Form W-2 for these ITIN filers.
Note: ITIN taxpayers requesting to file Forms 1099-R with an

incorrect Social Security Number must file a paper return. These
returns cant be e-filed. There are no procedures in place to efile
these types of returns.
L-2
Creating a Temporary TIN when the Spouse and/or
Dependent(s) are Applying for an ITIN
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Miscellaneous Forms> Application for ITIN Form W-7
TaxSlayer will not generate temporary ITINs for the taxpayer, spouse and/or dependents on a return if Form W-7 is
needed. The ITIN application requires a federal tax return be associated with all Form W-7 applications (with some
exceptions as noted in the instructions for Form (W-7). Federal tax returns cant be filed using electronic return preparation
software without a TIN (taxpayer identification number). If the taxpayer is working under an erroneous social security
number, that social security number should be used only on the W-2.
1. In the TIN field for all individuals needing to complete Form W-7, enter all digits as zeros 0. A return requiring three
temporary TINs will be entered as follows:
The spouses 000-00-0000 Start a return using all digits as zeros 0.
The first dependents 000-00-0000 Go to Miscellaneous Forms to find the W-7.
The second dependents 000-00-0000
2. Select each individual in TaxSlayer. See Preparing the Return tab, determining the Last Name of Taxpayer. Fill in
name of each family member applying for an ITIN on a separate Form W-7 application. Make sure that names match
required documentation that clients will be submitting with their W-7 application(s).
3. Print the return package, and provide the return package to the taxpayer to mail with Forms W-7 to the address
shown on the Form W-7 instructions.
4. If the taxpayer has a family pack that includes multiple Forms W-7 with one return, or multiple returns with one Form
W-7, these forms should be staggered and stapled together to show the entire package as a family pack. This will
prevent separation of the forms/returns that could delay the processing time.
5. Have taxpayers mail Form W-7 application(s), all necessary documentation, and tax return or take to a Certified
Acceptance Agent (CAA) or local IRS office. Note: Not all local IRS offices are authorized to process Form W-7
applications. See the list of supporting documentation in the Form W-7 Instructions.
6. If applicable, prepare a copy of the state return with a copy of the federal return attached. If taxpayers will not owe
state taxes, suggest they hold the state return until they receive their official ITIN letter(s) - may take 6-8 weeks -
and record the ITINs on the tax returns before mailing.
Note: ITINs will expire if not used within three years.
The following communication products provide information on changes being made to the Individual Taxpayer
Identification Number (ITIN) program this year. They are intended for use in raising awareness among taxpayers with a
need to file a federal tax return in 2018 but whose ITIN will expire at the end of 2017. The products, available in multiple
languages, are offered in electronic format for electronic distribution or for printing.
Publication 5259 (EN-SP), ITIN Fact Sheet
This publication is a guide to changes IRS is implementing resulting from the December 2015 PATH Act legislation
requiring expiration of certain ITINs. It also covers changes to the use of a passport as a stand-alone document for
dependent ITIN applications.
Publication 5256 (EN-SP), You May Need to Renew Your Expired ITIN
This publication provides taxpayers quick facts about which ITINs are expiring and how to get more information. It provides
three flyers per page and can be printed and cut/separated for use.
Publication 5257 (EN-SP), Renewing Your ITIN
This publication is a full page document detailing the facts about expiring ITINs and basic information about how to renew
them. Theres an electronic version with resource links and a printable version with instructions on how and where to find
more information.
L-3
Notes
L-4
M. Other Returns
Amended Returns
TaxSlayer Navigation: 2017 Amended Return
Cautions:
(1) Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act of 2015 prevents taxpayers using newly issued ID numbers to
retroactively claim refundable tax credits in prior years. For example, someone who filed a tax return under an ITIN and
later got an SSN cannot file amended return(s) to claim EITC.
(2) If you must change the filing status, TaxSlayer warns that all state returns will be deleted, so it is imperative to have/
print a paper copy of all state returns filed.
Important: Amended returns cannot be electronically filed and must be mailed to the IRS. Direct deposit/debit isnt
available for amended returns.
If the original return is not already in TaxSlayer, you will need a copy of their original return. See Amending Returns -
Original Return Not Created in TaxSlayer on page M-4.
If the return was created, e-filed, and accepted with TaxSlayer, follow these steps.
A. Pull original tax return amounts to Form 1040X Original column
1. Open the original return in TaxSlayer.
2. If the return was previously adjusted by the IRS, modify the original return to match the changes the IRS made
before opening Form 1040X.
3. To open Form 1040X, open the navigation MENU on the left and click 2017 Amended Return.
4. Where it says Original Federal Return Information, select Begin.
5. Verify that each Original Amount agrees with the taxpayers file copy of the return. If the original amounts are
not on the TaxSlayer form, manually enter the numbers from the original return.
6. When you have confirmed or entered all amounts from the original return, click Continue.
B. Enter corrections and provide explanation of changes in Form 1040X

7. Where it says Make Corrections for Amended Return, select Begin. Read the instructions and click
Continue.
8. If there are any Income changes in the amended return, click Edit on the appropriate line to enter the
appropriate amount(s) that are dictating the reason for the amended return and click Continue.
9. If there are changes in other sections (like Basic Information, Deductions/Credits, Other Taxes, Health
Insurance, etc.), go to that section, make the appropriate entries, and click Continue.
10. When you have finished making amending entries on the federal return, select 2017 Amended Return at the
left navigation MENU.
11. Where it says Explain Changes, select Begin. Enter the reason(s) for the federal amended return, and click
Continue.
C. Any Amendments to a State Return

12. If the state return needs to be amended, select Amend State Return(s), and click Begin. If there are no
state changes, skip to the steps for Print Return
13. Answer state-specific questions and enter amounts from original state return by selecting +Amend State.
Complete each menu item.
14. Make changes that do not flow from the federal return by selecting Edit State. Complete each menu item that
changed.
15. When you have completed the necessary entry or entries, click Continue until youre out of the state return
and select 2017 Amended Return on the MENU (at the left).
M-1
Amended Returns (continued)
TaxSlayer Navigation: 2017 Amended Return
D. Print Return and assemble the Form 1040X package to be mailed

16. Select Print Amended Return, click Begin, then Continue. On the Print Results page click Print your
2017 Tax Return.
17. In the pdf of the return, examine Column A to verify all lines from the original Form 1040 have transferred.
Next, examine Column B to verify that the amendment change(s) you entered appear on the correct line(s) of
the column. Then verify that the amount(s) on line(s) changed appear in the correct total amount(s) of these
lines in Column C.
18. Verify the correct amount overpaid or owed on Lines 18 or 20, respectively, are shown. On page 2, verify that
any changed exemption and dependent information is correct and that appropriate boxes are checked for
qualifying children eligible for Child Tax Credit.
19. If the state form is amended, scroll down the pdf to the state forms and verify that additions to or subtractions
from the federal AGI that were manually made on the amended state return are correct.
20. Ask a Quality Reviewer to double-check everything done for the amended return.
21. Print the following copies of tax forms (If a state amendment is not needed, skip state forms)
Total IRS State Taxpayer

1040X 3 1 1 1
1040 (with As Amended written across the top) 1 1
Any federal forms changed or added 3 1 1 1
State voucher (if any) 1 1
Any required State forms 2 1 1
22. For an amended return, form 1040X is the voucher if a balance is due. The taxpayer should simply enclose a
check with it and not use the printed inaccurate voucher.
23. Verify the state voucher amount (if used for your state) and that state amended return requirements are met.
24. Have taxpayers sign the 1040X and the state amended return and initial any handwritten entries. Use pre-
addressed envelopes. Advise taxpayer that amended return should not be filed until all refunds have been
received or by April due date for a current year amended return. Remind taxpayers to enclose payment if
payment is due.
25. Attach any new or corrected documents (like a late 1099-R). Do not attach the original return.
26. If responding to a notice from the IRS, send the federal amended return to the address shown in the notice. If
not, use the address in 1040-X Instructions.
M-2
Amended Returns (continued)
Follow the prompts to Cancel or Continue
Follow the prompts to Cancel or Continue
M-3
Amending Returns
Original Return Not Created in TaxSlayer
1. Create the complete amended return (federal and state) in the program the way it should be currently with the changed
information (NOT how it was originally submitted and accepted).
For a very simple return, create the correct return as you normally would have. Also create a correct state return.
For a more voluminous return, instead of entering every document, you can add them together to eliminate much
of the typing. Because this will be a paper return, much of the information that goes with an e-filed return is not
necessary. EINs, business addresses, etc. can be eliminated or dummy entries made.
If the return contains multiple copies of income documents, you can add them together and enter the totals. For
example,
If there are several W-2s, choose one EIN (needed solely to satisfy TaxSlayer), then enter the total from all Box 1s,
the total from all Box 2s, and the totals from any other boxes that will affect the tax return (generally 7, 8, 10, 12, 13,
and 17).
Do the same for 1099-INTs (separating taxable from tax-exempt interest), 1099-DIVs (separating ordinary dividends
from qualified dividends), and 1099-Rs (separating by Box 7 codes)
Schedule Cs that are not being changed can be created using just the net profit as the total income.
Schedule Ds that are not being changed can be created using one transaction for long term and one for short term
transactions, entering the net gain as the sales price with no basis.
Enter information for adjustments and credits
2. In the e-File section, select Paper for federal and state.
3. Go to the Amended Return Section and select Original Federal Return Information. Click Begin, and enter the return
data from the original return.
4. When you have confirmed or entered all amounts from the original return, continue with step 6 on page M-1 and
complete the remaining steps.
M-4
Prior Year Returns
TaxSlayer Navigation: Tax Year 20XX Returns>Create Prior Year
Who can prepare prior year returns?

Sites are encouraged to prepare prior year returns if they have the required technical resources described below. Prior
year returns may only be prepared and reviewed when the tax topics are within scope for VITA/TCE and within the
volunteers current level of training and certification. They dont need to be certified in the actual prior year. Determining the
certification level of the return is described below in Getting Started.
Getting started:
TaxSlayer only provides software for the 3 years prior to the current tax year.
A current year Form 13614-C must be completed for each prior year and will be used to determine the scope and
certification level of each return.
Taxpayers with out-of-scope returns should be advised to seek assistance from a paid tax preparer.
Assign prior year returns to experienced volunteers if at all possible.
Direct deposit or debit isnt available for prior year returns. IRS will mail refund checks to the address on the prior
year return.
Caution: Taxpayers cant retroactively claim some tax credits with newly issued ID numbers.
As of December 2015, taxpayers can no longer:
File a prior year return claiming EITC on the basis of newly issued social security numbers (SSNs) for themselves
and/or qualifying dependent(s).
File a prior year return claiming American Opportunity Tax Credit on the basis of newly issued SSNs, Individual
Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs) or Adoption Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ATINs) for themselves and/or
qualifying student(s).
File a prior year return claiming Additional Child Tax Credit on the basis of newly issued SSNs, ITINs, or ATINs for
themselves and/or qualifying child.
Technical resources:
The following tools are useful resources:
Prior year return tax preparation software.
TaxSlayer Pro Online users can access the prior year software from the home page.
Desktop sites will need to download and install the prior year software from the TaxSlayer website. Sites will
use their current EFIN and setup the software as usual. No registration codes are needed with TaxSlayer.
Applicable Publications 17 and 4012 and volunteer quality alerts/volunteer tax alerts (available on irs.gov)
Forms 13614-C from prior years are helpful. Sites may keep hard copies or rely on electronic copies.
Taxpayers Wage and Income Transcripts from their IRS records are extremely useful.
Note: For transcripts, taxpayers can go to irs.gov/individuals/Get-Transcript, register, and secure transcripts online if they
have email and can comply with enhanced verification. Taxpayers can also request transcripts to be mailed to the
address on file and takes 5 to 10 calendar days for delivery. In addition, taxpayers can request a transcript via Form
4506-T, or by calling 1-800-908-9946.
Prior year publications and instructions to forms and schedules are available on www.irs.gov.
Use the online tool Interactive Tax Assistance (ITA) for answers to many current and prior year tax law questions.
ITA is available on www.irs.gov.
M-5
Prior Year Returns (continued)
TaxSlayer Navigation: Tax Year 20XX Returns>Create Prior Year
Whether to e-file or mail prior year returns:

Only the two most current prior years can be e-filed. Older prior year returns must be mailed to the appropriate IRS
address from the list at Tab P, Where to File page. Also, refer to Tab K for additional information regarding balance due
returns and payment options.
Expired Tax Topics and Other Issues Applicable to Prior Years:
Refer to the Publication 17 for the applicable tax year and review the Whats New section.
What if a site cannot prepare a requested prior year return?

If possible, refer the taxpayer to other VITA/TCE sites that offer prior year return service. Otherwise, advise the taxpayer to
seek assistance from a paid tax preparer. (Note: Dont refer taxpayers to their local IRS Tax Assistance Center because
they no longer prepare tax returns for individuals.)
M-6
Filing for an Extension Using TaxSlayer?
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Miscellaneous Forms>Application for Extension Form 4868;
Keyword 4868 or EXT
Form 4868 - Application for Extension

How To File Your Extension
1. Enter your Information: Fill out all of the information in the Required Extension Information section below. Click
Continue.
2. E-File Your Extension: Start by selecting efile from the navigation bar. You will then be given the option to file your
return (Form 1040 and supporting schedules), or to file your extension (Form 4868). Complete the extension e-file
process. You should get an acknowledgement regarding your extension (whether the IRS accepted or rejected it)
by email within the 24-48 hours of filing.
3. Pay the Amount Paid with Extension: You will need to pay the amount due that you enter for Amount Paid with
Extension. You can do this in one of 3 ways
a. Pay by Electronic Withdrawal from your checking account: You can choose to pay your payment amount
as an electronic withdrawal from your checking account. Once you enter the amount you would like to pay,
check the box that appears to select this option. You will then enter your banking information, the date you
would like the transaction to take place and re-enter the amount to pay for confirmation. When you submit
your extension, the withdrawal information will be sent.
b. Pay by Credit Card: You can use your credit card and pay by phone by contacting one of the IRS approved
service providers.
c. Mail in your payment with your Form 4868: The form will print with your draft tax return. Mail the form with
your payment by check or money order.
M-7
Notes
M-8
N. Using TaxSlayer
Desktop
Navigating TaxSlayer Pro Classic (Desktop)
To begin a new return, or edit Access the E-file section Client Status - search by SSN and
an existing one, click on the Tax to transmit/e-file returns display the taxpayers Social Security
Returns button or choose Tax and extensions, check number, phone numbers, address,
Returns from the menu on the right. acknowledgements and Federal return type, IRS Transaction
print reports. date, and Reject information.
Click on the Help Center Click on Print Utilities this Configuration

to see the TaxSlayer Returns to print menu allows you to to set up the
support phone number and returns, extensions, backup and recall program defaults,
email address, link to the and blank forms. returns, and do other preparers, etc.
Springboard, and see the administrative tasks.
latest release notes.
View Returns allows you to enter a

specific SSN or pick from the client list
and choose from View/Print options. You
cannot edit a return from View Returns.
N-1
- continued
The toolbar appears at the top of the screen throughout the program, although some icons may not appear on all
screens:
The HELP button takes you This icon brings up a Brings up a To exit the
to the TaxSlayer desktop Client Status screen. You link to IRS TaxSlayer
knowledge base. You can search by SSN and publications, program, simply
can search by category display the taxpayers Social forms and click the x in
or keyword. Requires an Security number, phone instruction. the upper right
Check the
internet connection numbers, address, Federal Requires corner. You will
Message
return type, IRS Transaction an internet NOT be asked to
Center
date, and Reject information connection confirm.
Brings View rejected The Notes icon The current User

up the returns is only visible Name appears
extension inside the return in the upper
menu, where click here to right corner
you can add a note to the of the screen
create or tax return. throughout the
select an program
extension
To switch users, click Display a list of existing

on File in the upper returns click on one to
left corner, then Logoff select without having to
User. Youll get a new display the entire client
login screen. list
N-2
- continued
From the Desktop landing page: for more details, see the TaxSlayer Pro Desktop User Guide
E-file Main Menu
Utilities Main Menu Configuration Main Menu
N-3
Start a New Return
To start a new return from scratch, enter a SSN. To see a list of existing returns, hit the F8 key. The ESC key will take you
back to the starting menu.
From the client list, you can start a new return by entering the SSN here:
N-4
Start a New Return (continued)
To start a new, type in the SSN if the return does not exist, it will ask if youre ready to start a new one. If the prior year
exists on this computer, it will ask if you want to pull the information from last year:
General input tips:
If there is no Cancel button, hit the ESC key to

get out of a single-entry screens
Desktop TaxSlayer expects you to enter rounded

dollar figures. Some fields (like Wages in a W-2)
will round for you if you enter a decimal point,
but many others (like dividends) dont allow the
decimal to be entered. The program gives you a
warning as your start the return.
N-5
Form 1040
You can go to a return section by clicking on the

menu on the upper left, or use the hot links from
the specific lines of the 1040
The 1040 View page displays the return, with personal info on top,
including the TP and SP age next to DOBs. Scroll down to see
page 2 of the Form 1040.
You can click on Form Finder

on the lower left side to open
a new form, or open an Diagnostics are displayed across the bottom.
existing for by clicking on it in
the Completed forms list
N-6
Desktop Sub-menus
N-7
Desktop Sub-menus (continued)
N-8
View Form Option
View Form option - many input screens provide an Icon at the top of the screen that allows you to view the form from the
current menu. The F2441 is one place where you can get a quick view of a single form.
Click on the magnifying glass icon and a facsimile of the Form 2441 will open in a new window.
N-9
How to Use the Calculator
Click on the small Calculator right of the input field

to bring up a calculator screen.
Use the calculator to total

amounts for a particular entry,
then click Carryback to bring
the total back to the entry field.
N-10
Printing from Desktop
There are many different print settings available. If you are not able to print the way you would prefer, ask your site
coordinator to check the Printer settings in Configuration.
Print from the main menu by clicking on the Print Choose what you want to print:
button or selecting from the menu at the right:
Pick one or more returns from the list or enter an SSN:
Choose your print package:
Click on Print Selected at the bottom of the return list

to generate the prints:
N-11
Printing from Desktop (continued)
There are many different print settings available. If you are not able to print the way you would prefer, ask your site
coordinator to check the Printer settings in Configuration.
Print from inside the return:
Select View Results from the menu on the upper left side.
Select the form you wish to print.
Youll also be offered a chance to print the return when you mark it Complete in the Electronic Return section
N-12
Personal Information
If the spouse or dependent last name is You enter the primary SSN again on
the same as the taxpayers, TaxSlayer Pro this screen youll receive a warning
automatically fills that box with the taxpayers if it doesnt match the SSN you
last name AFTER you hit the tab key entered when starting the return
Enter N for the spouses SSN if they are a non-resident alien without an ITIN.
Enter A for the spouses SSN if the spouse has applied for an SSN or ITIN, but not yet
received it.
Form W-7 can be added to the return from the Miscellaneous Forms menu if the TP or spouse
needs to apply for an (or renew) an ITIN. The W-7, the completed tax return and all supporting
documents must be submitted together.
CAUTION: Without an SSN or ITIN, the return can NOT be e-filed, but you can enter the rest of the return.
Desktop will allow you to leave the phone number and email address blank but you should get as many phone
numbers for the taxpayer as possible.
N-13
Personal Information (continued)
Preparer Code identifies the preparer by number.
See next slide for Other Categories menu.
N-14
Personal Information (continued)
Other Categories Menu
Third Party Designee information can be defaulted in Configuration
Enter the ID Theft PIN if IRS has assigned

one to the taxpayer or spouse. Some state returns require a Drivers License or
State ID number:
N-15
Personal Information-Dependents
Edit, Delete and Add dependents as needed. A qualifying child who is not being claimed as a dependent on this return
only due to the special rules for divorced/separated parents should also be added to the return if they qualify the taxpayer
for a credit such as Earned Income Credit
If the child does not have an ITIN or SSN, you can choose from the drop down.
This will allow you to complete the return, but it can NOT be filed electronically
Choose the number of months that the

child lived with the TP.
N-16
Personal Information-Dependents (continued)
If the child lived with the other parent,

but the TP is able to claim this year
under the special rules for divorced/
separated parents, be sure to choose
NC. If you select NC for non-custodial
child, you will get some extra screens:
After each dependents information screen is completed, it will ask other questions based on the information provided.
For an older dependent, you will be asked if the child is a full-time student or disabled. It will also prompt you for more
information about dependent care expenses, and the release of exemption for a child.
Edit any items that pertain to this dependent.
N-17
ACA
When you are finished entering the Personal Info for TP, Spouse and Dependents, desktop will ask about MEC, and then
Marketplace coverage.
If you answer YES here, the software will not compute the Shared Responsibility Payment (SRP). If you answer NO, the
SRP will be computed based on no coverage for all family members. If the tax family had coverage for some part of the
year, or qualifies for a coverage exemption, you must add Form 8965 later in the return. A diagnostic warning will display
to remind you.
If you answer YES to Marketplace coverage, you will have to open the Form 8962 later to add the information from the
Form 1095-A. A diagnostic warning will display to remind you.
The Personal Information summary menu will appear next if you need to change your answers to the MEC or
marketplace questions, you can click on that item
N-18
ACA (continued)
If you need to address partial MEC, add F8965 for a coverage, or complete Form 8962 for the Premium Tax Credit, you
can do this at any point by using the Form Finder on the lower left side, or from the 1040 view by clicking on the Shared
Responsibility Payment line or one of the Premium Tax Credit lines. Be sure to address those things before finishing the
return
N-19
ACA-Form 8965 and Marketplace exemptions
If a member of the tax family has an ECN from the marketplace, select the Part I
exemption. Enter as many as needed.
If the Household Income

(HHI) on the return is
lower than the filing
threshold, the software
will indicate it on line 2.
No input is necessary
Marketplace Affordability worksheet doesnt give you the affordability threshold you still need to
manually calculate that and compare to the Annualized Required Contribution . See Tab H for instructions.
N-20
ACA-Form 8965 and IRS exemptions
If a member of the tax family is eligible for an IRS exemption, select the Part III Coverage Exemption. Enter as many as
needed, for each individual.
Select the IRS-granted exemption from the drop-down menu, and the months for which that exemption applies. The
months wont display on this screen, even after you make your selection, but they will carry to Form 8965.
N-21
ACA-Form 8965 and partial coverage
If some family members had MEC, but not all family members for all year click on Line 5 for the Shared Responsibility
then Edit each individuals months of coverage.
If the taxpayer was eligible to claim a dependent who is not being claimed by another, but chose not to claim that person,
click field 1. Elected Not to Claim to add another person to the tax household size.
Double-click or Edit the individual. For each individual, then click on 4. Months with No Coverage and No Exemption
so that only the boxes with no coverage AND no exemption are checked.
N-22
ACA-Dependents MAGI
If a dependent claimed on the return (or who could have been claimed) is required to file a tax return (see tab H for the
tax filing thresholds for dependents), the dependents MAGI is included in Household Income. From the F8965 menu,
click on Shared Responsibility Payment
Click on Household Income to add the dependents MAGI.
Most of these fields will automatically fill with

information from the return but lines 8, 9, 10 and 14
require information from the dependents separate
tax return. If more than one dependent had a filing
requirement, enter the total from all the dependents
returns, as applicable. The information from this
worksheet is used to compute HHI for both the
SRP and the PTC.
Caution: Nothing in the desktop program prompts the you to

include dependents MAGI the preparer needs to remember
N-23
ACA-Form 8962, Premium Tax Credits
If the F1095-A includes a person who is not part of the tax family, or if someone in the tax family is
listed on another taxpayers Form 1095-A, the policy amounts must be allocated this is OUT OF
SCOPE
Preparer needs to indicate YES or NO to using annual PTC amounts, and then click on the next line to enter the
amounts. Once entered, the form will display either the Net Premium Tax Credit (to be refunded) or the Excess PTC
Repayment.
N-24
Form W-2
After entering personal and ACA information, the next item should be Income:
After selecting Yes, the screen below will appear and you will select New to enter a W-2.
NOTE: Only Whole Dollar Entries should be entered.
If the W-2 contains and entry on Line 9, Verification Code, enter this number when inputting the W-2 data
N-25
Form W-2 (continued)
To edit a W-2, highlight the W-2 to edit and select the edit key:
Main Menu:
If you exit or are at the Main Menu, you can

select 2, to get back to the Income menu to
enter any income item(s).
Income Menu:
N-26
Income Other Compensation
Other Line 7 income: To enter Taxable Scholarship, Prisoner Earned Income, or Foreign Compensation, select Other
Compensation on the W2 Menu.
Scholarships and Grants used to pay for tuition, fees and course related expenses are NOT taxable. Use this link to
report only amounts that were used for non qualifying expenses. Taxable scholarship is considered unearned income.
Sch will appear on the dotted line next to line 7 on Form 1040.
Enter the amount received for work while an inmate in a penal institution. For purposes of the Earned Income Credit, this
isnt considered earned income. This includes amounts received for work performed while in a work release program
or while in a halfway house. PRI will appear on the dotted line next to line 7 on Form 1040. This entry is made in
addition to entering the Form W2 from the penal institution. Enter wages received as a household employee for which
the taxpayer did not receive a Form W2 because the employer paid less than $1,900 in 2016. HSH will appear on the
dotted line next to line 7 on Form 1040. When entering compensation on a joint return, be careful to indicate
whether the income belonged to the taxpayer or the spouse. Enter foreign earned income (wages, salaries, etc.) paid by
a foreign employer for work performed while the taxpayer lived in a foreign country
N-27
Interest and/or Dividend
Schedule B Interest/Dividend Income
Commonly used: Simple line items, use Interest/Dividends, #3
Input the dollar amount
Interest and/or Dividend Income will be entered from the Income Menu #2 when entering specific payer(s) documents:
Schedule B Interest
Private activity bond interest (PAB) is entered in Other Taxes>> Alternative Minimum Tax>>Interest
from specified private activity bonds exempt from the regular tax.
Select New:
N-28
Interest and/or Dividend (continued)
Select Interest Type as reported by payer document:
Tax Exempt Interest:
For Dividend Income, select #3 or 4 from the menu:
Regular Dividend Tax Exempt Dividend
N-29
Schedule C or C-EZ / 1099 MISC
The Schedule C / C-EZ can be accessed by using any of

the following options. Clicking on any of the options here
will open the Schedule C / C-EZ Menu shown below
Clicking on <2. Income Menu> will bring up the Income

Menu shown below. You will then need to click <6.
Business Income /Loss> to access Schedule C, C-EZ
N-30
Schedule C or C-EZ/1099 MISC (continued)
Click on <New > then Select your option of

Schedule C or -Schedule C-EZ
Complete the Principal Business Activity and Code as shown below.
This button will

show the entire list
of business codes.
N-31
Schedule C-EZ/1099 MISC (continued)
Click on the Business Direct input of business

Categories code. If you know your
business code, you can
enter it here.
The Principal
Business Category
option will appear
Click the down arrow

to see the Business
Category.
Select a Category
then drill down to the
business codes as
shown Below.
N-32
Complete the Business information screen then click OK.
The schedule C/ C-EZ Name and Address Screen will appear. Click the Item number to make a change.
N-33
Schedule C or C-EZ Edit Menu
Click on Gross Receipts or Sales and Enter Gross Receipts or Sales. You can also add a statement as shown below
Click F10 to create Supporting Notes
Click New to create a new Supporting Statement
Note: When entering gross receipts, this would include income reported on Form 1099-K, Payment Card and Third Party
Network Transactions, as well as all other cash and any other income received related to the business activity.
N-34
Select 3 (Form 1099 MISC)
Click New to complete form 1099Misc
N-35
Look for any Federal Tax Withheld

while completing the form
Complete form 1099 MISC
Complete Expense Menu then Exit.
N-36
Schedule D
Edit, Delete and Add new Schedule Capital
Gain/Loss transactions as needed. Select
Other to enter Long and Short term carryovers
and access the Sale of Home worksheet (see
Tab D for more information on Capital Gains
and Losses)
Choose the cost basis type that applies to this transaction:

Code A or D
Code B or E
Code C or F
A snapshot of the transaction will display on the next screen. Enter the Date Acquired and Date Sold, or
If an adjustment to basis or net capital gain is required, enter the select from the pick list for Date Acquired or
adjustment amount and select the adjustment code(s) from the list. Date Sold.
For most transactions, no adjustment to gain or loss is needed. You
may need to enter an adjustment if the basis provided is incorrect, Short term = 1 year or less Long term =
another situation applies that requires a change to the basis, or if the more than 1 year
taxpayer is able to exclude some or all of the capital gain. See Tab D
for more info.
N-37
Schedule D-Loss Carryover and Sale of Main Home
Select Other to enter Long and Short term carryovers and access the Sale of Home worksheet
(see Tab D for more information)
N-38
Sale of Main Home
(for more information on the exclusion, see Tab D)

Report the sale or exchange of your main home as a Capital Gain or Loss if:
You cant exclude all of your gain from income, or
You received a Form 1099-S for the sale or exchange.
Generally, if you meet the following two tests, you can exclude up to $250,000 of gain. If both you and your spouse meet these tests
and you file a joint return, you can exclude up to $500,000 of gain (but only one spouse needs to meet the ownership requirement in
Test 1).
Test 1. During the 5-year period ending on the date you sold or exchanged your home, you owned it for 2 years or more (the
ownership requirement) and lived in it as your main homefor 2 years or more (the use requirement). *Military members may be
able to suspend the 5-year period while serving on qualified official extended duty.
Test 2. You havent excluded gain on the sale or exchange of another main home during the 2-year period ending on the date of
the sale or exchange of your home.
If you have a gain that cant be excluded, it is taxable.
Death of spouse. If you sell your home after your spouse dies (within 2 years after your spouse dies), and you have not remarried as
of the sale date, you can count any time when your spouse owned the home as time you owned it, and any time when the home was
your spouses residence as time when it was your residence.
When entering the days, you

can click on the calculator
on the left to figure the days,
and carryback the result
If you are required to report the sale AND IT RESULTS IN A GAIN -- Open the Sale of Home Worksheet. You will be prompted to enter most
information.
To edit or enter the sales price, sale date,and selling expenses Click on Adjusted Basis of the Home to bring up a worksheet where you can
enter purchase price,improvements and other adjustments to basis
Click on Maximum Exclusion for a worksheet where you can enter the days it was main home and days owned for TP and Spouse
CAUTION: If the TP had days of non-qualified use after 2008 (when the TP owned the home but didnt use it as a main home) return is OUT OF
SCOPE
TIP: If the taxpayer received the 2008 First Time Homebuyers Credit: Form 5405 will be required to determine how much of the credit must be repaid
N-39
Income - Form 1099-R
Form 1099-R select #10, IRA/Pension Distributions:
Form 1099-R select #10, IRA/Pension Distributions:
N-40
Income - Form 1099-R (continued)
Simplified Method: Check the very small box SGR in 2A
N-41
Income - Form 1099-R (continued)
Public Safety Exclusions

To exclude the amount for a Public Safety Officer, from the Main Menu of the Tax Return (Form 1040) select:
Income Menu
IRA/Pension Distributions (1099-R, RRB-1099-R, 8930)
Select New and fill out the Payers Information
Enter the Gross Distribution in Box 1 as it is shown on the 1099-R
Subtract the amount of any Qualified Retired Public Safety Officer Distribution from the Gross Distribution and
enter the different Taxable Amount. Exit this menu. The smaller of the amount of the premiums or $3,000 can be
excluded (subtracted) from distribution.
Select the Other / Roth Button
Select Public Safety Officers Insurance Distribution
Select YES
Select either Form 1040 Line 16 or Form Line 7. This section should match the line of the 1040 that the 1099-R in
reported on, usually line 16. When you view Form 1040, the abbreviation PSO will be displayed in the left margin of
the 1040.
If you selected Form 1040 Line 7 you will be prompted to input the Amount of Distribution being excluded on Form
1040, Line 7. The exclusion and the abbreviation PSO will print on the dotted line of Form 1040, Line 7.
Note: This is a guide on entering Public Safety Officer Distributions into the TaxSlayer Pro Program. This is not intended
as tax advice.
N-42
Income - Form 1099-R Disability
Entering F1099-R when box 7 contains code 3 Disability:
Form 1099-R Code 3 Disability and the recipient (taxpayer or spouse) is under the
minimum retirement age for the company he/she retired from, then check box on line i to
report on line 7. This will allow for the calculation of this income for the Earned Income Tax
Credit, Child Tax Credit/Additional Child Tax Credit and Dependent Care Credit.
N-43
Income - Form SSA 1099
Here you will select #1 for the Taxpayer and #2 for the Spouses SS Benefits.
Entry for the Primary Taxpayer:
Entry for Spouse:
N-44
Income - Form 1099-SSA & RRB 1099
Form SSA 1099 Social Security Benefits
From Income Menu select #14, Social Security Benefits
Then select #1, Taxpayers net SS Benefits from 1099-SSA & RRB -1099 from the menu:
N-45
Income - Form RRB-1099
Form 1099-R RRB
Check box on right for RRB-F1099-R
View of F1099-R when the RRB 1099-R Box has been checked
N-46
Income K-1
Income Menu K-1 Income: Select #11
Selection #11 will prompt the screen below. For K-1, select #2:
Select New:
N-47
Income K-1 (continued)
Select Type:
Select drop down box for Spouse or Joint options:
The K-1 Earnings menu allows you to enter all items of income, deductions, etc.
that we reported to your client on Form K-1 from either a partnership (Form 1065),
S-Corporation (Form 1120S), or trust (Form 1041). Enter the amounts from the K-1 in
the spaces provided exactly as they appear on your clients paper K-1
N-48
Income K-1 (continued)
Select Line item to be entered in the Enter Option box :
N-49
Income Other Income
To access the other income menu

Click on form finder then type Other Income
Click Other Income line 21 on the return or
Click Income Menu
Click Other Income to Add Edit or Delete other income Item
N-50
Income Other Income (continued)
Entering Medicaid Waiver Payments :
Scenario A: If income is reported on FormW-2 (and payer will not change), enter the Form W-2 as provided. Then, go to
line 21>Other income not reported elsewhere>enter Notice 2014-7 in the description field and the amount as a negative
number.Then, go to Other Income>Other Compensation and enter the income as Medicaid Waiver wages. This will
remove the income from EIC and other credit calculations as necessary.
Scenario B: If income is reported on a Form 1099-MISC, go to line 21>Other income not reported elsewhere>enter Notice
2014-7 in the description field and $0 in the amount field.
Scenario C: If income is reported on a Form 1099-MISC and you are in the business of providing home care services,
enter the full amount of payments under Gross Receipts in the Schedule C Income section. In Other Expenses, enter
Notice 2014-7 as the description and the amount as a positive number.
N-51
Credits - Child Care
Select Credit Menu to view the Credit Menu
Access the Child and Dependent

care Information Menu by clicking
on the Credits Menu, or on Line
49 of the Form 1040 View or type
2441 in Form Finder window.
Select Credit Menu to view the

Credit Menu then click Child and
Dependent Care Expenses Credit
N-52
Credits - Child Care (continued)
Click Amount Paid to Child

Care Providers to Add, Edit,
or Delete a Provider
Once a provider is created, you can select the

provider from the list to edit or delete that provider.
Click on New to add a Child

Care Provider. Complete the
providers information then
select OK
N-53
The Child Care Provider Edit Menu will come up automatically after you add a Provider. This will allow you the
opportunity to make corrections to the Child Care Provider then Exit.
Click to Modify Provider

Information
Click to Select or Add

Qualifying Persons
Click new to Add Qualifying Person Not Listed. You

will need to verify this child qualifies before adding.
N-54
Click to Edit Qualifying

Persons Information.
Click Income for being

a Student or Disabled
then enter the number
of months as a full time
student or disabled.
N-55
Employer-Paid Benefits are pulled from W2. The amount pulled can be
adjusted.
Benefits received from Sole proprietorship or Partnership are not shown and
must be added.
N-56
O. Using TaxSlayer
Pro Online
Setting TaxSlayer Pro Online as a Favorite
To set up TaxSlayer ProOnline as a Favorite in your web browser, use the following steps:
1. Open Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, or Google Chrome.
2. Type https://vita.taxslayerpro.com/proavalon in the address line. Current and prior year software can be accessed
upon logging in.
3. Click on the Favorites icon.
4. Click Add.
5. In Name, type the name you want the favorites to display.
6. Click OK.
Logging on to Pro Online the first time

The user name isnt case sensitive. To log on to TaxSlayer ProOnline, enter your Username, Password, and Security
Code.
Note: See TaxSlayer User Guide for updated login procedures
O-1
Pro Online Homepage
The Welcome Menu is the Main Menu of the program. It is the first screen the program takes you to every time you log
into your office account. From the Main Menu, you will find Menu Options that contain functions pertaining to the program.
Each part of the program can be accessed by clicking on the gray Select button. This screen shot will be different based
on your security level.
Start New Tax Return: Select to start a new return.

Time-saving tips: After selecting Start a new return, you can select a client profile. Each profile will send you to
appropriate data input screens for that kind of taxpayer, e.g. working family with kids, retired with investments, retired
without investments. Alternatively, after you enter the basic information you can go to Quick Files (from the dropdown
menu beside the taxpayers name) and list the entry screens you want to see. Additional forms or screens can be added
by entering their name or number in the form search box.
Client Search: Select to open an existing return.
Review Returns: This option displays the Review Returns page, listing all returns that tax preparers have marked for
review. The Quality Reviewer can select returns to review, and then mark the return as Approved or Rejected.
O-2
Navigating TaxSlayer Pro Online
Income
This section is used to enter all items of income on the tax return. You will be given two options from the main income
page:
-Select Guide Me to launch a step-by-step series of questions to help determine the various types of income that should
be entered on the tax return.
-Select Enter Myself if you prefer to enter in items of income without the help. This will take you to the income entry
screen which lists the various types of income that should be reported on the tax return. Select a Begin or an Edit button
to enter/edit an item of income. See the Income tab for more directions on entering specific types of income.
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Deductions
Deductions
This section is used to enter all deductions, adjustments or subtractions on the tax return.
-Select Guide Me to launch a step-by-step series of questions to help determine the various types of deductions that
should be entered on the tax return.
-Select Enter Myself if you prefer to enter deductions without assistance. This will take you to the deductions entry screen
which lists the various types of deductions that should be reported on the tax return. Select a Begin or an Edit button to
enter/edit a deduction. See the Adjustments, Deductions, Nonrefundable Credits, Earned Income Credit, and Education
Benefits tabs for additional information and specific instructions on these topics.
O-3
Navigating TaxSlayer Pro Online (continued)
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Other Taxes
Other Taxes
This section is used to enter any other tax types for which the taxpayer may be liable. Select the Begin button next to any
other tax item to enter in data applicable to the taxpayer. See the Other Taxes and Payments tab for additional information
and specific instructions.
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Payments and Estimates
Payments & Estimates

This section is used to enter such items as payments, apply overpayments to next years return and to print vouchers for
next years estimated payments. Select the Begin button next to any payment or estimate item to enter in data applicable
to the taxpayer. See the Other Taxes and Payments tab for additional information and specific instructions.
TaxSlayer Navigation: Federal Section>Miscellaneous Forms
Miscellaneous Forms
This section of the Federal Section is used to enter the following:
Injured Spouse Form - Form 8379
Claim a Refund Due to a Deceased Taxpayer - Form 1310
Application for Extension - Form 4868
Married Filing Separate Allocation
IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)
Installment Agreement (Form 9465)
Application for ITIN Form W-7
Power of Attorney Form 2848
TaxSlayer Navigation: State Section
State Section
If you chose a State of Residency from within the Personal Information screen, this part of the program will be created
based on all the necessary information entered into the return for you.
If you dont have a state return, you can click Continue or use any of the navigation options on the left side of your screen.
The following states dont have state income tax returns that can be filed through the program:
Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington and Wyoming.
The Add Another State Return(s) will help you to create any state return that you will be including in the tax return.
Choose a state from the drop down box located on the Select Your State Return page and select Continue.
You will be prompted to select the taxpayers state residency type. Most states have a separate resident, part year resident
and non-resident tax return. Select Continue.
O-4
Navigating TaxSlayer Pro Online (continued)
Select the Begin button to enter other state data applicable to the taxpayer. The federal and state information entered
on the federal return will automatically pull into the state. When you have entered in all applicable state data items select
Continue.
To delete a state return, select State Return from the left side of your screen. Select the delete icon next to the state that
you would like to delete.
Summary/Print Page
The Calculation Summary screen is an overview of each section of the tax return. Select the show details link located
next to each item to view a breakdown of what items are included in the tax return. You can view and/or edit each item of
income, adjustments, tax, payments etc. by selecting the link from the expanded list. You can toggle between the Summary
View (shown below) or the 1040 View, which allows you to link from most of the line items on Page 1 and 2 of the Form
1040
Select View/Print the Return to create a PDF of the return that can be printed or reviewed.
O-5
Navigating TaxSlayer
Form or Topic Key 1040 View Navigation to Data Entry Screen
Word
982 Reduction of Tax Attributes 98 21 Income>Other Income>Cancellation of
Debt Form 1099-C, Form 982
1040-ES Estimated Tax Payments 1040 N/A Payments & Estimates>Vouchers for Next
Years Estimated Payments
1040-X Amended Return N/A N/A Select 2017 Amended Return Section from
side menu or create prior year return
1095-A Health Insurance N/A 46/61/69 Select Health Insurance Section from
side menu>Follow screens to Advanced
Premium Tax Credit
1098 Mortgage Interest Statement 1098 40 Deductions>Itemized
Deductions>Mortgage Interest and
Expenses>Mortgage Interest Reported on
Form 1098
1098-E Student Loan Interest 1098 33 Deductions>Adjustments>Student Loan
Interest Deduction
1098-T Tuition Statement 1098 34/50 Deductions>Credits Menu>Education
Credits
1099-A Acquisition or Capital 12/21/13 Income>Capital Gain and Losses>Sale
Abandonment of Main Home Worksheet or use Capital
Gains and Loss Items
1099-B Proceeds from Broker and 10 13 Income>Capital Gain and Losses>Capital
Barter Exchange Gain and Loss Items
1099-C Cancellation of Debt -C or CANC 21 Income>Other Income>Cancellation of
Debt Form 1099-C, Form 982
1099-DIV Dividends D 9 Income> click Income from Federal
Section>Interest and Dividends>Interest or
Dividend Income
1099-G State Tax Refund G 10 Income>State and Local refunds
1099-G Unemployment 10,UN 19 Income>Unemployment Compensation
Compensation
1099-INT Interest Income INT 8 Income>Interest and Dividends>Interest or
Dividend Income
1099-INT Box 9, Private Activity 6251 45 Other Taxes>Alternative Minimum
Bond Interest (PAB) Taxes>Interest from specified private
activity bonds exempt from the regular tax
1099-K Payment Card and Third C 12 Income>Profit or Loss from a
Party Business>Add or edit a Schedule
C>Income (include in gross receipts or
sales)
1099-MISC Miscellaneous Income MIS N/A Income>Form 1099-MISC
1099-OID Original Issue Discount INT 8 Treat the same as 1099-INT
1099-Q Payments from Education N/A 21 If not taxable, do not enter, if taxable, then
Programs out of scope
Note: For each form or topic listed in the left column use any of the navigation methods in the three columns to the right. If
any column is N/A, use another method.
O-6
Navigating TaxSlayer (continued)
Form or Topic Keyword 1040 Line Navigation to Data Entry Screen
1099-QA Distributions from ABLE N/A 21 If not taxable, do not enter, if taxable, then
Accounts out of scope
1099-R IRA Distribution -R 15 Income>IRA/Pension Distributions> Add or
Edit a 1099-R
1099-R Pension Distributions -R 16 Income>IRA/Pension Distributions> Add or
Edit a 1099-R
1099-R Retirement -R 16 Income>IRA/Pension Distributions> Add or
Edit a 1099-R
1099-S Proceeds from Real Estate CAP 13 Income>Capital Gain and Losses>Capital
Transaction Gains and Loss Item
1099-SA HSA HSA 25 Deductions>Adjustments>Health Savings
Account Form 8889
2120 Multiple Support Declaration N/A N/A Not in TaxSlayer, take exemption, keep
form in TP files
4852 Substitute for Form W-2 W2 7 Income>Wages>Add a W-2>This is a
substitute W-2
4852 Substitute for Form 1099-R 495 15 Income>IRA/Pension Distributions>Add a
1099-R>Check here if this is a substitute
1099-R
CSA 1099-R Civil Service Annuity -R 16 Income>IRA/Pension Distributions>Add or
Paid Edit a 1099-R
CSF 1099-R Statement of Survivor -R 16 Income>IRA/Pension Distributions>Add or
Annuity Paid Edit a 1099-R
K-1 Beneficiarys (or Partners) K N/A Income>Other Income>K-1 Earnings
Share of Income
RRB 1099 Railroad Retirement RR 20b Income>IRA/Pension Distributions>Social
Benefits (Tier 1 blue form) Security Benefits/RRB-1099
RRB 1099-R Railroad Retirement RR 16 Income>IRA/Pension Distributions>RRB-
Benefits (Tier 2 green form) 1099-R
SSA-1099 Social Security Benefits SSA 20 Income>IRA/Pension Distributions>Social
Security Benefits/RRB-1099
W-2 Wages & Salaries W 7 Income>Wages and Salaries
W-2G Gambling Winnings W2G 21 Income>Other Income>Gambling Winnings
Alimony Paid ALIM 31 Deductions>Adjustments> Alimony Paid
Alimony Received ALIM 11 Income>Alimony Received
Amended Return N/A N/A 2017 Amended Return Section from side
menu (Tab M)
American Opportunity Credit 1098 50 Deductions>Credits>Education Credits
Annuity Calculator, Simplified -R 16 Income>IRA/Pension Distributions>Add or
Method or Public Safety Officer edit a 1099-R>Click here for options
Exclusion
Attach a PDF to the Return CAP 13 Income>Capital Gain and Losses>PDF
Attachments
Brokers Statements N/A N/A See appropriate 1099
O-7
Business Expenses C or SCHEDULE C 12 Income>Profit or Loss From A

Business>Add a Schedule C Income from
Business>General Expenses, Car And
Truck Expenses, or Other Expenses
Cancellation of Debt CAN 21 Income>Other Income>Cancellation of
Debt
Capital Gains CAP 13 Income>Capital Gains and Losses
Capital Gains Distributions INT or DIV 9 Income>Interest or Dividend
Income>Interest or Dividend
Income>Dividend Income>Capital Gain to
Schedule D
Capital Loss Carryforward CAP 13 Income>Capital Gains and Losses>Other
Capital Gains Data (including Capital Loss
Carryover)
Charitable Distribution from IRA -R 15 Income>IRA/Pension Distribution>Add or
edit 1099-R>Subtract distribution that was
sent directly by trustee to charity from Box
1 and enter the difference in Box 2a.
Charitable Donations CHA 40 Deductions>Itemized Deductions>Gifts to
Charity
Deceased Taxpayer PER plus 1310 N/A Personal Information>Check here if
Taxpayer is deceased. PLUS complete
Form 1310 if person filing the return
is other than spouse (Miscellaneous
Forms>Claim a Refund Due to a Deceased
Taxpayer).
Direct Deposit/Direct Debit N/A N/A E-File Section from side menu>Federal
Return Type, State Return Type. Then enter
Taxpayer Bank Account Information.
Dividend Income D 9a Income >Interest and Dividends>Interest or
Dividend Income
Donations to Charity CHA 40 Deductions>Itemized Deductions>Gifts to
Charity
Early Withdrawal Penalty (not on EARL 30 Deductions>Adjustments> Penalty on Early
1099-INT) Withdrawal of Savings or CD
Education Expenses EDUCA, 886 34/50 Deductions >Credits Menu>Education
Credits
Educator Expenses EDUCA 23 Deductions>Adjustments> Educator
Expenses
Elderly or Disabled Credit ELD 54 Deductions>Credits>Credit for the Elderly
or Disabled Schedule R
Energy Credits ENER 53 Deductions>Credits>Resident Energy
Credit
O-8
Estimated Tax Payments for the FED or PAY 65 Payments & Estimates>Federal Estimated
tax year Payments
Estimated Payment Vouchers VOU STAT N/A Payments & Estimates>Vouchers for Next
Federal State Years Estimated Payments
Exempt Interest INT 8b Income>Interest & Dividends>Interest or

Dividend Income>Tax Exempt Interest
Income Form 1099-INT, Box 8 or Form
1099-DIV, Box 10
Extension, Filing for EXTE N/A Miscellaneous Forms>Application for
Extension
First Time Home Buyer Credit FIR 60b Other Taxes>First-time Homebuyer
(Repayment) Repayment
Foreign Tax Credit 1116 48 Deductions>Credits>Foreign Tax Credit
Gambling Winnings W2G or 21 Income >Other Income>Gambling

Winnings
Health Savings Accounts HSA 25 Deductions>Adjustments> Health Savings
Account
Household Employee Income (no OT or OTHER 7 Income>Other Income>Other
W-2) Compensation> Household Employee
Income
Identity Theft PIN PIN N/A Miscellaneous Forms>IRS Identification
Pin
Injured Spouse INJ N/A Miscellaneous Forms>Injured Spouse
Form
Interest Income INT 8 Income>Interest and Dividends>Interest or
Dividend Income>Interest Income, Form
1099-INT
Interest Income not on a Form INT 8 Income>Interest and Dividends> Interest
or Dividend Income>Interest Income, Form
1099-INT
Investment Management Fees MIS 40 Deductions>Itemized
Deductions>Miscellaneous
Deductions>Investment Fees and
Expenses
ITIN, Application for N/A N/A Miscellaneous Forms>Application of ITIN
IRA Contributions (Traditional IRA 32 Deductions>Adjustments>IRA Deduction
IRA)
IRA Contributions (ROTHIRA) IRA 51 Deductions>Credits>Retirement Savings
Credit>Any Current Year Roth IRA
Contributions
IRA Distributions -R 15 Income>IRA/Pension Distributions>Add or
Edit a 1099-R
O-9
IRA Qualified Charitable -R 15 Income>IRA/Pension Distribution>Add

Distribution (Not a Charitable or edit 1099-R>Subtract distribution that
Gift Annuity) wassent directly by trustee to charity from
Box 1 and enter the difference in Box 2a.
Go to Nontaxable Distributions and check
the Check here to mark this as a Qualified
Charitable Distribution (QCD) on your
return. Box
IRA Rollover -R 15 Income>IRA/Pension Distributions> Add or
Edit a 1099-R check the box Check here
if all/part of the distribution was rolled over,
and enter the rollover amount.
Jury Duty Pay N/A 21 Income>Other Income>Other Inc. Not
Reported Elsewhere
Jury Duty Paid to the Employer J 36 Deductions>Other Adjustments>Jury Duty
Pay
Lump Sum Social Security SSA 20 Income>IRA/Pension Distributions>Social
Benefit Security Benefits/ RRB-1099>Begin
Worksheet
Management Fees (Investment) MIS N/A Deductions>Itemized
Deductions>Miscellaneous
Deductions>Investment Fees and
Expenses
Medical and Dental Expenses MED 40 Deductions>Itemized Deductions>Medical
and Dental Expenses
Medicaid Waiver Payments on W 7/21 Income > Wages and salaries Form W-2
W-2 and enter the amount in the Medicaid
Waiver Payment in Box 1 to be subtracted
on line 21.
Mileage for Charitable Travel CHA 40 Deductions>Itemized Deductions>Gifts to
Charity>Noncash Gifts to Charity
Mileage for Medical Travel MED 40 Deductions>Itemized Deductions>Medical
and Dental Expenses
Mortgage Insurance Premiums MORT 40 Deductions>Itemized
Deductions>Mortgage Interest and
Expenses>Private Mortgage Insurance
(PMI) Deduction
Mortgage Interest and Points MORT 40 Deductions>Itemized
Paid Deductions>Mortgage Interest and
Form 1098
Mortgage Interest Paidnot on MORT 40 Deductions>Itemized
Form 1098 Deductions>Mortgage Interest and
Expenses>Mortgage Interest Not Reported
on Form 1098
Noncash Donations that total CHA 40 Deductions>Itemized Deductions>Gifts to
$500 or less Charity>Non-Cash Gifts to Charity
O-10
Noncash Donations that CHA 40 Deductions>Itemized Deductions>Gifts to

total more than $500 but are Charity>Non-Cash Donations (more than
individually less than $5,000 $500)
OID Interest INT 8 Income>Interest and Dividends>Interest or
Dividend Income
Other Income (prizes, jury duty, N/A 21 Income>Other Income>Other Inc. Not
etc.) Reported Elsewhere
PDF, Attaching N/A 13 Income>Capital Gain and Losses>PDF
Attachments
Pension Distributions -R 16 Income>IRA/Pension Distributions> Add or
Edit a 1099-R
Personal Property Taxes Proper 40 Deductions>Itemized Deductions> Taxes
You Paid
PIN, Identity Theft PIN N/A Miscellaneous Forms>IRS Identification
Pin
Private Activity Bond interest 6251 45 Other Taxes and Payments>Alternate
Minimum Tax>Interest from specified
private activity bonds exempt from the
regular tax
Prizes and Awards N/A 21 Income>Other Income>Other Inc. Not
Reported Elsewhere
Public Safety Officer Exclusion -R 16 Income>IRA/Pension Distributions>Add or
edit 1099-R>Click here for options
Real Estate Taxes MORT 40 Deductions>Itemized Deductions>
Mortgage Interest and
Form 1098
Refunds of State and Local G [box 2] 10 Income>State and Local Refunds
Income Tax (if reportable)
Residential Energy Credit ENER,RESI 53 Deductions>Credits>Residential Energy
Credit
Retirement Savings Credit RETI 51 Deductions>Credits>Retirement Savings
Credit
Roth IRA Contributions IRA 51 Deductions>Credits>Retirement Savings
Credit>Any Current Year Roth IRA
Contributions
Royalties (Simple royalties with SC 17 Income>Rents and Royalties
no associated expenses)
Sale of Stock CAP 12 Income>Capital Gain and Losses
Sale of Main Home CAP 12 Income>Capital Gain and Losses>Sale
of Main Home Worksheet or use Capital
Gains and Loss Items
Sales Tax Deduction SALE or TAX 40 Deductions>Itemized Deductions>Taxes
You Paid
Schedule C SC 12 Income>Profit or Loss from a Business
O-11
Scholarships and Grants; OT or OTHER 7 Income>Other Income>Other

compensation> Scholarships and Grants
Self-employment Income C 12 Income>Profit or Loss from a Business
Seller-financed Mortgage MORT 40 Deductions>Itemized
Interest Paid Deductions>Mortgage Interest and
Expenses>Mortgage Interest Not Reported
on Form 1098
Seller-financed Mortgage INT 8 Income>Interest and Dividends>Interest or
Interest Received Dividend Income>Seller Financed Interest
Income
Simplified Method -R 16 Income>IRA/Pension Distributions>Add or
edit a 1099-R>Click here for options
Social Security Benefits SSA 20 Income>IRA/Pension Distributions> Social
Security Benefits/ RRB-1099
State and Local Tax Refund G [box 2] 10 Income>State and Local Refunds
Worksheet
State and Local Taxes Paid STAT 40 Deductions>Itemized Deductions>Taxes
You Paid> Additional State and Local
Income Tax
Student Loan Interest STU or LOA 33 Deductions>Adjustments> Student Loan
Interest Deduction
Substitute W-2 W 7 Income>Wages>Add a W-2>This is a
substitute W-2
Taxable Refund Worksheet G [box 2] 10 Income>State and Local Refunds
Tax Exempt Interest INT 8 Income>Interest and Dividends>Interest
or Dividend Income>Tax Exempt Interest
Income
Taxes Paid, Federal Estimated FED or PAY 65 Payments & Estimates>Federal Estimated
Payments for 2017
Taxes Paid, State and Local STAT 40 Deductions>Itemized Deductions>Taxes
You Paid> Additional State and Local
Income Tax
Taxes Paid, State and Local FED or STATE 65 Payments & Estimates>State Estimated
Estimated Payments
Tip Income (not reported to W 7 Income>Wages>Unreported Tips (on W2
employer) below line 10)
Tip Income (not reported to 4137 58 Income>Wages>Unreported Tips PLUS
employer because tips were Other Taxes and Payments>Tax on
less than $20 per month) Unreported Tip Income
Traditional IRA Contributions IRA 32 Deductions>Adjustments>IRA Deduction
Tribal Per Capita Payments not N/A 21 Income>Other Income>Other Inc. Not
on 1099 Reported Elsewhere
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Tuition and Fees Adjustment TUI 34/50 Deductions>Adjustments> Tuition and Fees
Deduction
Unemployment Compensation UN 19 Income>Unemployment Compensation
Unemployment Compensation G 19 Income>Unemployment compensation
RepaymentSame Year as
Benefit Received
Unemployment Compensation MIS 40 Deductions>Itemized
RepaymentYear after Benefits Deductions>Miscellaneous
Receivedgreater than $3,000 Deductions>Repayment under claim of
right (if greater than $3000)
Unemployment Compensation MIS 40 Deductions>Itemized
RepaymentYear after Benefits Deductions>Miscellaneous
Receivedless than $3,000 Deductions>Add Additional
Unrecovered Investment in MIS 40 Deductions>Itemized
Pension Deductions>Miscellaneous
Deductions>Unrecovered investment in
pension
Volunteer Expenses CHA 40 Deductions>Itemized Deductions>Gifts to
Charity
Vouchers for Estimated VOU N/A Payments & Estimates>Vouchers for
Payments Federal State NextYears Estimated Payments
Wages & Salaries W 7 Income>Wages and Salaries
W-7 Application for ITIN N/A N/A Miscellaneous Forms>Application for ITIN
Withholding not on another WITH N/A Payments & Estimates>Other Fed (or
form State) Withholding
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Contingency Plan Option
Contingency Plan TaxSlayer Pro, also referred to as Desktop, to be utilized in the rare occasions where TaxSlayer Pro
Online is unavailable or the site loses internet for an extended period of time. The Desktop software should be downloaded
and installed as part of pre-season preparation. Follow the instructions below to download the desktop software:
Access Springboard
The URL is https://vita.taxslayerpro.com/
Click on My Account in the top right corner to login with username and password created from the link provided by
TaxSlayer when your order was originally placed.
O-14
Contingency Plan Option (continued)
To download the TaxSlayer Pro program from the internet, complete the following steps:
Look for Other Options to the right of the screen
Select Install 20XX TaxSlayer Pro Software
Select Run
Follow the on screen prompts to download and install the TaxSlayer Pro software
NOTE: Select Account History to access your EFIN/Office validation code that is required to be entered into the software
during setup.
NOTE: If you are running anti-virus software or a firewall in the background, be sure that you select Allow, or Permit or
Unblock if prompted to do so to allow the TaxSlayer Pro program files to download and install.
Install the Software on computers to be used in the event TaxSlayer Pro Online is unavailable for an extended period of
time.
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Notes
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P. Partner
Resources
Information for Assisting People with Disabilities
It is important to read and understand Publication 5192 Ten Key Points for Communicating with People with Disabilities
(refer to the link below) because there are many misconceptions (often benevolent but misguided) about interacting with
people with disabilities. Therefore, if one wants to show concern and respect for a person with a disability, it is worth
considering the guidelines in Publication 5192.
https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p5192.pdf - Ten Key Points for Communicating with People with Disabilities
The following videos describe the taxpayer experience at free tax preparation sites and explain basic information about
the return preparation process. This information is beneficial for the volunteers who serve as American Sign Language
interpreters at the sites across the country and useful for anyone who wants to better understand the tax preparation
process.
1. ASL: Get Free Tax Help provides an introduction to the free tax preparation services available to qualified
taxpayers. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A3B6nAYh4oU
2. ASL: What to Bring at Tax Time focuses on the process of completing the Intake/Interview & Quality Review
Sheet, and documents necessary for taxpayers to bring to VITA/TCE sites.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zJtvlMIb5ss
3. ASL: Understanding Your Tax Return provides information on completing the tax form 1040 and goes through
the free tax return preparation process at VITA/TCE sites.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uIgxP9u9YDQ
Financial Coaching for Veterans

Veterans can receive free financial coaching services. This initiative focuses on helping Veterans reach their financial
goals, providing support, encouragement, accountability, and tools to assist making informed decisions. Financial coaches
are available through the dedicated toll-free number, 844-904-6257 and provide virtual coaching or tele-coaching.
Veterans Crisis Line

The Veterans Crisis Line connects Veterans in crisis and their families and friends with qualified, caring Department of
Veterans Affairs responders through a confidential toll-free hotline, online chat, or text. Veterans and their loved ones can
call 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1, chat online, or send a text message to 838255 to receive confidential support 24 hours
a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Support for deaf and hard of hearing individuals is available. For more information
go to www.veteranscrisisline.net
IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center - Appointment Service

The IRS offers appointments at 44 Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) locations throughout the United States. Taxpayers
will call a new toll-free number to make an appointment for face-to-face service. Taxpayers requiring an appointment at a
TAC location should call 1-844-545-5640.
P-1
Identity Theft Job Aid for Volunteers
Being sensitive towards victims of identity theft is critical to assisting taxpayers through a confusing and frustrating
situation. Remember victims of identity theft are:
Victimized by identity thieves-mostly through no fault of their own, and
Trying to comply with tax laws file tax return and pay their fair share of taxes
Every December, the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit (IPSU) mails Notice CP01A to taxpayers previously
identified as identity theft victims. The notice includes a 6-digit Identity Protection Personal Identification Number
(IP PIN) to be entered on the tax return. Taxpayers are mailed Notice CP01A every year as long as the identity theft
indicator remains on their account (usually 3 years). Use the most recent IP PIN regardless of the tax year.
When assisting taxpayers who are victims or may be victims of identity theft at VITA/TCE site:
If... Then...
Identity Protection PIN (IP) Ensure the IP PIN is input correctly on the tax return.
PIN was issued to primary
and/or, secondary and/or
dependent taxpayer(s)
Taxpayer received an IP PIN 1. Complete a tax return for the taxpayer.

but didnt bring it with them 2. Provide taxpayer with a complete copy of the tax return. (Provide two copies if the
taxpayer will mail the tax return.)
3. Refer to Replacing Lost or Missing IP PIN below.
4. If taxpayer wants to e-file, arrange for the taxpayer to provide the IP PIN by
returning to the site or via telephone.
Taxpayer received an IP PIN 1. Complete a tax return for the taxpayer.

but misplaced or lost it 2. Provide taxpayer with a complete copy of the tax return. (Provide two copies if the
taxpayer will mail the tax return.)
3. Refer to Replacing Lost or Missing IP PIN below.
4. If the taxpayer receives original or a replacement IP PIN and wants to e-file, arrange
for the taxpayer to provide the IP PIN by returning to the site or via telephone.
Taxpayer didnt receive IP 1. Refer to Replacing Lost or Missing IP PIN below.

PIN but IRS rejected the 2. Provide taxpayer with two complete copies of the tax return.
e-filed tax return because 3. If the taxpayer receives the original or a replacement IP PIN and taxpayer wants
the IP PIN wasnt entered. to e-file, advise the taxpayer to provide the IP PIN by returning to the site or via
telephone.
4. If IPSU doesnt provide the IP PIN, advise taxpayer to follow IPSU instructions
in mailing the tax return. There may be processing delays as IRS verifies the
taxpayers identity.
IRS rejected the taxpayers 1. Advise the taxpayer to contact the IPSU for assistance. If required, the IPSU will
tax return because the advise the taxpayer to complete Form 14039 and to mail it with their tax return to
taxpayers primary/ the IRS.
secondary/dependent SSN 2. Provide the taxpayers two copies of their tax return.
was previously used.
Replacing a Lost or Missing IP PIN

If a taxpayer didnt receive his/her new IP PIN or the taxpayer misplaced it, the taxpayer has two options:
1. A taxpayer can register and create a user profile to get his/her current IP PIN at https://www.irs.gov/individuals/get-
an-identity-protection-pin. The registration process will require the taxpayer to provide specific personal information
and answer a series of questions to validate his/her identity.
2. Contact IPSU at 1-800-908-4490, to request his/her IP PIN to be mailed.
P-2
Frequent Taxpayer Inquiries
Taxpayers normally ask questions during the interview process about the topics covered in this section. Visit
www.irs.gov-keyword: 1040 Central or see Publication 17 for additional topics and information.
Installment Payment the joint return even if they later divorce. In some cases, a
Publication 594, The IRS Collection Process, explains spouse (or former spouse) will be relieved of the tax, interest,
taxpayers rights and responsibilities regarding payment of and penalties on a joint tax return. Spousal relief is granted in
federal taxes. certain situations when a taxpayer can prove he/she isnt liable
for amounts due in joint filing situations.
Copies of Prior-Years Returns
Transcripts of prior-year returns may be obtained by going to Taxpayers should see Publication 971, Innocent Spouse Relief
https://www.irs.gov/individuals/Get-Transcript or by filing Form which explains the types of relief, who may qualify for them,
4506-T, Request for Transcript of Tax Return. The website can and how to get them. Married persons who didnt file joint
be used to get prior-year information needed for this years returns, but who live in community property states, may also
return. qualify for relief. (Out of scope for VITA/TCE prepared returns.)
If an actual copy is needed, taxpayer should complete Form Injured Spouse Relief
4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return, and mail it with the An injured spouse claim is different from an innocent spouse
required fee to the IRS campus where the return was filed. relief request. An injured spouse can request the division of tax
overpayment attributed to each spouse. The injured spouse
Amended Returns (See Other Returns Tab)
must file Form 8379, Injured Spouse Allocation, to request his
Form 1040X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return
or her portion of a joint refund.
should be used by taxpayers to amend their return. Many
mistakes are corrected in processing by the IRS and a letter of Married Filing Separately
explanation is mailed at the time an error is identified or when Unless required to file separately, married taxpayers may want
a refund is issued. In these cases, taxpayers arent required to their tax figured on a joint return and on separate returns, to
file an Amended Return as the corrections have already been make sure they are receiving the most advantageous filing
made. status. Filing separately may be advantageous for some
taxpayers in certain situations. Generally, however, married
Preparation of amended returns has expanded in the VITA/TCE
taxpayers pay more combined tax on separate returns than
programs. Sites can choose to file amended returns even if
they would on a joint return. See Publication 17, Filing Status,
they didnt prepare the original return.
for Special Rules (which outlines the disadvantages).
Taxpayer Address Changes
Social Security Numbers and Account Information
Taxpayers should use Form 8822, Change of Address, to notify
Social Security no longer issues Social Security Number
the IRS of any change of address. If taxpayers move after filing
verification printouts in their field offices. Taxpayers may get
the return and before a refund is received, they should notify
this information using the my Social Security Account feature
their old post office and the IRS of their new address.
on www.ssa.gov. Local Social Security offices would continue
Recordkeeping to provide benefit verification letters.
Taxpayers should keep their tax documents until the statute of
Hardship Refund Request
limitations runs out for the return. Usually, this is three years
A taxpayers tax refund will be offset (intercepted) to pay
from the date the return was due or filed, or two years from the
outstanding Federal tax debts, child support, Federal non-
date the tax was paid, whichever is later. Refer taxpayers to
tax debts, state income tax debts, and unemployment
Publication 17, Filing Information or at www.irs.gov keyword:
compensation debts. When a tax refund is offset, the taxpayer
Recordkeeping.
will receive a letter explaining how the refund was applied to
FREE Tax Preparation Locations his or her outstanding debt.
Consult your Site Coordinator for information about the location
If a taxpayer would face a hardship from a tax refund offset
of other VITA/TCE sites in your area. Taxpayers may call
and has only outstanding Federal tax debts, he or she can
1-800-829-1040 or visit AARPs website at www.aarp.org/
request an Offset Bypass Refund (OBR) from the IRS. Refer
taxaide or call 1-888-227-7669 for this information.
the taxpayer to the Taxpayer Advocate Service to see if they
Problems Navigating the IRS meet TAS case acceptance criteria. The OBR typically should
Taxpayers may contact the Taxpayer Advocate if their attempts be requested before the return is filed because the OBR must
to deal with an IRS problem are unsuccessful. be approved before the refund is offset.
Taxpayers can visit www.irs.gov/advocate or see Publication Requests for hardship relief from other debts must be made
1546, for details on what the Taxpayer Advocate Service to the agency to which the debt is owed. The Treasury Offset
provides. Also suggest Publication 910, Guide to Free Tax Program (TOP) can confirm whether a tax refund will offset
Services. for these other debts and provide details about the debt and
Refund Information a contact phone number for the agency to which the debt is
Taxpayers should be directed to www.irs.gov to obtain owed. The TOP Call Center can be reached weekdays at 800-
information about their refund. Specific information is available 304-3107, TTD 800-877-8339, between 8:30 a.m. and 6 p.m.
by clicking on Wheres My Refund? Eastern Time.
Innocent Spouse Relief

Taxpayers who file a joint tax return are jointly and individually
responsible for the tax and any interest or penalty due on
P-3
Useful Publications and Forms
Tax Publications for Individual Taxpayers

General Guides
1 Your Rights as a Taxpayer 529 Miscellaneous Deductions 925 Passive Activity and At-Risk Rules
17 Your Federal Income Tax For 530 Tax Information for Homeowners 926 Household Employers Tax Guide For
Individuals 531 Reporting Tip Income Wages Paid in 2015
334 Tax Guide for Small Business (For 535 Business Expenses 929 Tax Rules for Children and
Individuals Who Use Schedule C or 544 Sales and Other Dispositions of Assets Dependents
C-EZ) 550 Investment Income and Expenses 936 Home Mortgage Interest Deduction
509 Tax Calendars for 2015 (Including Capital Gains and Losses) 946 How To Depreciate Property
910 IRS Guide to Free Tax Services 551 Basis of Assets 947 Practice Before the IRS and
554 Tax Guide for Seniors Power of Attorney
Specialized Publications
555 Community Property 969 Health Savings Accounts and Other
3 Armed Forces Tax Guide 556 Examination of Returns, Appeal Rights, Tax-Favored Health Plans
54 Tax Guide for U.S. Citizens and and Claims for Refund 970 Tax Benefits for Education
Resident Aliens Abroad 559 Survivors, Executors, and 971 Innocent Spouse Relief
463 Travel, Entertainment, Gift, and Car Administrators 972 Child Tax Credit
Expenses 561 Determining the Value of Donated 974 Premium Tax Credit
501 Exemptions, Standard Deduction, and Property
Filing Information 1542 Per Diem Rates (For Travel Within the
570 Tax Guide for Individuals With Income Continental United States)
502 Medical and Dental Expenses (Including From U.S. Possessions
the Health Coverage Tax Credit) 1544 Reporting Cash Payments of Over
571 Tax-Sheltered Annuity Plans (403(b) $10,000 (Received in a Trade or
503 Child and Dependent Care Expenses Plans) For Employees of Public Business)
504 Divorced or Separated Individuals Schools and Certain Tax-Exempt 1546 Taxpayer Advocate Service Your
505 Tax Withholding and Estimated Tax Organizations Voice at the IRS
514 Foreign Tax Credit for Individuals 575 Pension and Annuity Income
590 Individual Retirement Arrangements
Spanish Language Publications
516 U.S. Government Civilian Employees
Stationed Abroad (IRAs) 1SP Derechos del Contribuyente
517 Social Security and Other Information 594 The IRS Collection Process 17SP El Impuesto Federal sobre los Ingresos
for Members of the Clergy and Para Personas Fisicas
596 Earned Income Credit (EIC)
Religious Workers 594SP El Proceso de Cobro del IRS
721 Tax Guide to U.S. Civil Service
519 U.S. Tax Guide for Aliens Retirement Benefits 596SP Crdito por Ingreso del Trabajo
521 Moving Expenses 901 U.S. Tax Treaties 850 English-Spanish Glossary of Words
523 Selling Your Home 907 Tax Highlights for Persons with and Phrases Used in Publications
524 Credit for the Elderly or the Disabled Disabilities Issued by the Internal Revenue
525 Taxable and Nontaxable Income Service
915 Social Security and Equivalent
526 Charitable Contributions 1544SP Informe de Pagos en Efectivo en
Railroad Retirement Benefits
527 Residential Rental Property (Including Exceso de $10,000 (Recibidos en
Rental of Vacation Homes) una Ocupacin o Negocio)
Commonly Used Tax Forms

Form Number and Title Form Number and Title
1040 U.S. Individual Income Tax Return 3903 Moving Expenses
Sch A Itemized Deductions 4137 Social Security and Medicare Tax On Unreported Tip Income
Sch B Interest and Ordinary Dividends 4562 Depreciation and Amortization
Sch C Profit or Loss From Business 4868 Application for Automatic Extension of Time
Sch C-EZ Net Profit From Business 5329 Additional Taxes on Qualified Plans (Including
Sch D Capital Gains and Losses IRAs) and Other Tax-Favored Accounts
Sch E Supplemental Income and Loss 5405 First Time Homebuyer Credit and Repayment
Sch EIC Earned Income Credit 5695 Residential Energy Credits
Sch R Credit for the Elderly or the Disabled 8332 Release of Claim to Exemption by Custodial Parent
Sch SE Self-Employment Tax 8379 Injured Spouse Allocation
1040A U.S. Individual Income Tax Return 8453 Transmittal for an IRS e-file Return
1040EZ Income Tax Return for Single and 8812 Additional Child Tax Credit
Joint Filers With No Dependents 8822 Change of Address
1040-ES Estimated Tax for Individuals 8863 Education Credits (American Opportunity,
and Lifetime Learning Credits)
1040-V Payment Voucher 8879 IRS e-file Signature Authorization
1040X Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return 8880 Credit for Qualified Retirement Savings Contribution
1116 Foreign Tax Credit 8949 Sales and Other Dispositions of Capital Assets
2106 Employee Business Expense 8962 Premium Tax Credit
2106-EZ Unreimbursed Employee Business 8965 Health Coverage Exemptions
Expenses 9465 Installment Agreement Request
2120 Multiple Support Declaration
2441 Child and Dependent Care Expenses
2848 Power of Attorney and Declaration of
Representative
P-4
Where to File
Where Do You Mail your return to the address Envelopes without enough postage will
File? shown below that applies to you. be returned to you by the post office.
Your envelope may need additional
postage if it contains more than five
pages or is oversized (for example, it
is over 1/4 thick). Also, include your
complete return address.
THEN use this address if you:
IF you live in... Are not enclosing a check or Are enclosing a check or
money order... money order...
Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas Department of the Treasury Internal Internal Revenue Service P.O.
Revenue Service Box 1214
Austin, TX 73301-0002 Charlotte, NC 28201-1214
Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Department of the Treasury Internal Internal Revenue Service
Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Revenue Service P.O. Box 7704
Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming Fresno, CA 93888-0002 San Francisco, CA 94120-7704
Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Department of the Treasury Internal Internal Revenue Service P.O. Box
Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Revenue Service 802501
Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Fresno, CA 93888-0002 Cincinnati, OH 45280-2501
Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota,
Wisconsin
Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, New Department of the Treasury Internal Internal Revenue Service P.O. Box
Jersey, North Carolina, South Carolina, Revenue Service 931000
Tennessee, Virginia Kansas City, MO 64999-0002 Louisville, KY 40293-1000
Delaware, Maine, Massachusetts, Department of the Treasury Internal Revenue Service P.O. Box
Missouri, New Hampshire, New York, Internal Revenue Service 37008
Vermont Kansas City, MO 64999-0002 Hartford, CT 06176-7008
Connecticut, District of Columbia, Department of the Treasury Internal Revenue Service P.O. Box
Maryland, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Internal Revenue Service 37910
West Virginia Ogden, UT 84201-0002 Hartford, CT 06176-7910
A foreign country, U.S. possession Department of the Treasury Internal Internal Revenue Service P.O.
or territory*, or use an APO or FPO Revenue Service Box 1303
address, or file Form 2555, 2555-EZ, Austin, TX 73301-0215 Charlotte, NC 28201-1303
4563, or 8891, or are a dual-status
alien
*If you live in American Samoa, Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, or the Northern Mariana Islands, see Pub. 570
Note: Mailing addresses for amended returns can be found in the instructions for Form 1040X.
P-5
Wheres My Refund
Available on irs.gov
Interactive Tax Assistant (ITA)

Available on irs.gov and TaxSlayer.
The ITA tool is a tax law resource that takes you through a series of questions and provides you
with responses to a limited number of tax law questions.
Simply answer the questions and click the Continue button to progress to the next question screen.
You may need to collect information before the interview such as income amounts, taxes owed and credits you are
claiming.
The tool includes a crossover feature that allows you to move from certain tax topics to another without needing to
enter the same answers multiple times. The Review/Change button allows you to adjust responses to previously
asked questions.
When you reach the response screen, you have the option to print the entire interview and the final response.
ITA Topics by Category

Affordable Care Act Income Deductions
Credits General Filing Questions
For additional information on tax law resource tools refer to the links below.
https://www.irs.gov/Individuals/Tax-Trails-Main-Menu
https://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/
P-6
Q. TaxSlayer Admin
Optional Contingency Plans for Maintaining VITA/
TCE Return Preparation Operations
(During Unexpected Circumstances)
In the event that the following situations occur:
Software system outages

The Sites internet or equipment isnt operating
A Quality Reviewer isnt available (see Quality Review Only Using the Virtual Model, below)
Partners may, at their discretion, choose among the following pre-approved options to continue
preparing tax returns in lieu of closing the site for the day:
Temporary Virtual VITA/TCE Process (explained below)

Offer Facilitated Self Assisted** (FSA) services, if available
TaxSlayer ProWeb Alternative Preparation Solution* using TaxSlayer Desktop
*This option should be established during the Pre-Planning Phase of site operations.
**This option should be established during the Pre-Planning Phase of site operations. Refer to Publication 1084, VITA/
TCE IRS Volunteer Site Coordinator Handbook for more detailed information.
Temporary Virtual VITA/TCE Process

Secure Taxpayer Consent:
The taxpayer must present proof of identity, which includes a photo identification for him/her and if applicable,
their spouse.
If the taxpayer agrees to use the virtual process for preparing their tax return, the volunteer will prepare Page 1 of
the Form 14446, Virtual VITA/TCE Site Model Taxpayer Consent, and the taxpayer is required to complete Page
2. Taxpayer must answer Yes or No to the question regarding Request to Quality Review Your Tax Return. The
taxpayer keeps Page 1 of the form, while the site maintains Page 2.
The appropriate virtual method(s) and step-by-step procedures will be explained to the taxpayer and timeframes
will be established for the taxpayer to return to the site and complete the process.
A secure process for authenticating both the taxpayer and the volunteer must be provided to the taxpayer, in the event that
additional information is required to complete the tax return. Please refer to Publication 4299, Privacy and Confidentiality-A
Public Trust for more information.
Intake/Interview:
The intake and interview process must be performed before the taxpayer leaves the site.
IRS tax law certified volunteers must conduct the initial interview following all the steps outlined in Pub 5101, Intake/
Interview and Quality Review Training.
The volunteer will need to make notes on the Form 13614-C indicating the appropriate filing status and dependency
exemptions.
Eligibility determinations for deductions and credits will be made and documented on the Form 13614-C.
All oral testimony must be thoroughly documented on the Form 13614-C for use during the return preparation at a
later time.
The verified SSNs and/or ITINs will need to be written on the Form 13614-C for all persons that will be included on
the tax return.
A phone number where the taxpayer can be reached will be secured for use by the IRS certified tax return preparer.
Refer to Publication 4299, Privacy and Confidentiality-A Public Trust for more information on establishing protocols to
authenticate the identity of both the volunteer and the taxpayer.
The taxpayer will leave their tax documents and the completed Form 13614-C for their tax return to be prepared once
the software can be accessed and/or when a non-face-to-face quality review will be conducted.
The taxpayer will be given a date/time to return to the site to participate in the quality review and/or sign the Form
8879, and secure a copy of their return. If a timeframe cant be provided while the taxpayer is still onsite, the Site
Coordinator will provide this information to the taxpayer as soon as a timeframe is available.
Q-1
Optional Contingency Plans for Maintaining Site
Operations (continued)
Quality Review Only Using the Virtual Model:
If the site is able to prepare the return using normal face-to-face procedures but the return isnt able
to be Quality Reviewed during the taxpayers visit:
Follow all of the procedures above in the Secure Taxpayer Consent.
Complete the tax return as normal.
Explain that the taxpayer will be contacted by the Quality Reviewer.
Refer to Publication 4299, Privacy and Confidentiality-A Public Trust for more information.
For more detailed information on how to use a Virtual VITA/TCE process throughout the filing season refer to the Virtual
VITA/TCE process located in Publications 1084, Site Coordinators Handbook and 4396-A, Partner Resource Guide.
Q-2
TaxSlayer Pro Alternative Solution
Contingency Plan
TaxSlayer makes a contingency procedure available in the rare event that the web site becomes unavailable. If that
happens, you can use TaxSlayer Pros desktop application to prepare and e-file returns.
Download the desktop application in advance so that your site does not have any downtime. Do not install TaxSlayer Pro
on a network as a contingency plan. Instead, install on a stand-alone computer with an internet connection.
To download the desktop application, refer to Tab N.
TIP: For a complete listing of contingency options, refer to IRS Publication 4396-A, Partner Resource Guide.
In order for the TaxSlayer Pro Desktop contingency plan to work successfully, it is important to keep the designated
computers updated with the latest desktop software versions. TaxSlayer Pro Desktop automatically updates the first time
you open it each day, if the computer is connected to the internet. We recommend that you do this daily or weekly.
If a software system outage necessitates the use of a temporary contingency plan, you can use the installed and updated
version of TaxSlayer Pro Desktop to complete any returns you need to prepare during the outage. Sites will be able to
work the return completely from the desktop application, including e-filing and getting acknowledgments. The return will
remain in the desktop application for the duration of the filing season.
TIP: Returns prepared using the desktop software during a contingency plan will be transmitted from the desktop
software. You will also use the desktop software to retrieve any acknowledgement associated with the returns transmitted
from the desktop software.
When TaxSlayer Pro Online is available again, use it to prepare new returns and complete any returns you started
previously in TaxSlayer Pro Online.
Rejected Returns
The most common rejects involve errors in either the taxpayer(s) or their dependents Social Security Number (SSN) and
the Employer Identification Number (EIN) that appears on the Forms W2 and Forms 1099. The IRS performs a name
match on these numbers that can cause a return to be rejected. Typographical and other errors can often be easily
resolved. The taxpayer may need to be contacted to determine the correct EIN or SSN numbers. Neither the IRS nor
TaxSlayer Pro can resolve these rejects.
Q-3
(Top) Reject Codes
Top Reject Codes Suggested Solutions
506 Qualifying childs SSN listed for the purpose Verify SSN of the dependent. If correct, the
of claiming Earned Income Credit (EIC) has been return will need to be mailed. Explain that this
used on another tax return. could be inadvertent error on a mailed return OR
it is possible someone else may have knowingly
claimed this dependent.
504 Dependents Social Security Number (SSN) Verify NAME & SSN or ITIN. Check Spelling &
must match data from the IRS Master File. Data Entry. Verify info with client - have client
contact SSA to verify information. Ask to see the
Social Security Card(s).
503 Last name for the secondary taxpayer on the Verify the name, SSN or ITIN. Ask to see the
return does not match the IRS Master File and/or Social Security card of the spouse. Check for
Social Security Administration (SSA) records. spelling and transposition errors. If the data
entered is incorrect, make the corrections and
retransmit the return.
501 Qualifying SSN on Schedule EIC and the Can be a companion to Reject Code 504.
corresponding Qualified Name Control must However if the Qualifying Child listed for EIC is
match data from the IRS Master File. a dependent on page one of tax return and only
Reject Code 501, verify source data for year of
birth or verify with client the year of birth. IRS
only verifies year not month or day of birth.
541 Taxpayer must be older than qualifying child Verify birthdays of taxpayer and child.
on Schedule EIC.
500 Primary SSN and Primary Name Control Verify NAME & SSN or ITIN. Double Check
of the Tax Form must match data from the IRS Source Document. Review NAME Control.
Master File.
535 Qualifying SSN on Schedule EIC and the Verify birthday of child. Verify NAME & SSN.
corresponding Year of Birth must match data
received from the Social Security Administration.
502 Employer Identification Number of Form Based on the ACK Report determine if W-2,
W-2,W-2G, or 1099-R must match data from the W-2G or 1099R. If more than one, determine
IRS Master File. from ACK Report which number. Double check
the source document. If still incorrect contact
payer or have client contact payer. If still unable
to resolve will have to mail the return.
600 Taxpayer must file Form 8862 to claim EIC Complete Form 8862.
after disallowance.
507 Dependents SSN on the Form 1040/A was Verify SSN of the dependent. If correct, the
previously used for the same purpose. return will need to be mailed. Explain that this
could be inadvertent error on a mailed return or
it is possible someone else may have knowingly
claimed this dependent.
Q-4
Index
401(k) Automatic Debit.............................. K-4 For the Elderly or the Disabled..... G-14
Contribution............................... G-9 Balance Due................................. K-14 Lifetime Learning............................. J-4
Distribution.............................. D-33 Basic Steps in Preparing a Residential Energy Credit........... EXT-7
Rollover................................... D-39 Tax Return................................. K-7 Retirement Savings........................ G-9
ACA Basis Adjustment Codes.............. D-39 Credit Card Debt,
ACA......................................... N-18 Birth date...................................... B-15 Cancellation of........................ D-65
Form 8965 and Brokers Statement....................... D-25 Day Care - See Child Care............. G-7
Marketplace exemptions.... N-20 Business Mileage........................... D-8 Death of Taxpayer or Spouse......... K-8
Form 8965 and Business Expense.................D-20, F-9 Deceased Taxpayer
IRS exemptions.................. N-21 Recordkeeping..............................F-13 Claiming a Refund................... K-12
Form 8965 and partial Cancellation of Debt Signature...................................... K-12
coverage............................ N-22 Credit Card................................ D-3 Decision Tree, Residency
Dependents MAGI.................. N-23 Principal Residence.............. EXT-1 Status.........................................L-1
Form 8962, Premium Tax Capital Gains and Losses............. D-37 Deductions.......................................F-1
Credits............................... N-24 Carry Forward......................... D-36 Dependent
2017 Federal Tax Filing Capital Gains or Losses Sale of Qualifying Child......................... C-4
Requirement Thresholds..... H-11 Main Home.............................. D-28 Qualifying Relative.................... C-6
2017 Federal Tax Filing Charitable Contributions..................F-7 Dependent, Rules for Claiming....... C-3
Requirement Thresholds- Child and Dependent Care Deposit slip..................................... K-5
Dependents......................... H-9 Credit Desktop Sub-menus....................... N-7
Allocation of Policy Decision Tree............................. G-6 Determining Qualified
Amounts............................. H-30 Child & Dependent Care........... G-5 Education Expenses.................. J-6
Alternative Calculation for Year Child Tax Credit............................ G-12 Determining Residency Status........L-1
of Marriage Eligibility......... H-30 Children of Divorced or Separated Determining Support Worksheet.... C-9
Exemptions: Overview............... H-8 Parents...................................... C-8 Direct Debit..................................... K-5
Federal Poverty Lines............. H-21 Civil Rights................ Inside back cover Direct Deposit of Refund.............. K-15
Health Care Coverage Civil Service Retirement............... D-37 Disabilities Information................... P-1
Exemption.......................... H-14 Classroom Expenses for Disabled Person, EIC for..................I-4
Health Insurance Teachers.................................... E-2 Disallowed EIC.................................I-6
Introduction ......................... H-4 COD Credit Card.......................... D-63 Distributing Copies of the Return. K-13
Marketplace Coverage Affordability COD Principal Residence........... EXT-1 Dividends...................................... D-11
Worksheet.......................... H-17 Codes Capital Gain............................ D-22
Minimum Essential 1099-R Box 7.......................... D-41 Exempt Interest......................... D-9
Coverage............................. H-5 5329.......................................... H-2 Non-dividend Distributions........ D-1
Premium Tax Credit................. H-24 Basis Adjustment.................... D-26
Ordinary.................................... D-1
Repayment Limitation............. H-29 Exception to Code 1 Penalty..... H-2 Private Activity Bond....................... D-8
Shared Responsibility W-2 ........................................... D-4 Qualified.................................... D-1
Payment Worksheet........... H-23 Commuting diagram......................F-12 Divorced or Separated
Ad Valorem Taxes............................F-6 Commuting Expense.....................F-12 Parents, Children of................... C-8
Additional Child Tax Contact Numbers................ Back cover Earned Income.................................I-1
Credit....................................... G-12 Contributions to Charity...................F-8 Earned Income Credit Rules............I-3
Additional Tax on IRAs.................... H-1 Contingency Plans for Maintaining Site Education Credit.............................. J-4
Address, Foreign.......................... B-16 Operations................................. Q-1 Education Expense.......................... J-6
Adjustments To Income.................. E-1 Cost of Keeping Up a Home......... B-11 Education Loan, Interest Paid........ E-8
Alien Taxpayer.................................L-1 Credits - Child Care...................... N-52 Education Tax Benefits
Alimony Requirements................... E-6 Screen Shot.................................... G-1 Education Benefits..................... J-7
Amended Returns..........................M-1 Additional Child Tax...................... G-12 Summary.................................... J-2
American Opportunity American Opportunity..................... J-4 Educator Expenses........................ E-2
Credit................................... J-4, J-9 Child and Dependent Care............. G-5 E-file............................................... K-1
Student Under Age 24................ J-9 Child Tax....................................... G-12 E-Filing with ITIN.............................L-2
Armed Forces Income.................... D-2 Earned Income............................. Tab I
Auto Registration Tax.......................F-6 Education......................................... J-1
Q-5
Index
EIC 1099-INT................................... D-7 Quick Reference Guide............. D-1
Disallowed...................................I-6 1099-MISC.............................. D-14 Rental...................................... D-50
Qualifying Child of More 1099-R.................................... D-34 Royalties................................. D-52
than One Person........... C-4, I-5 1116.......................................... G-2 Self-employment..................... D-13
Requirements.............................I-2 13614-C.................................... B-3 Taxable and Non-taxable.......... D-1
Employee Transportation 2441.......................................... G-7 Where to Enter.......................... D-3
Expenses.................................F-12 2555........................................ D-54 Income Documents......................... D-3
Entering Basic Information........... B-12 2848.......................................... K-6 Information for People with
Entering Dividend Income............ D-11 4137.......................................... D-5 Disabilities................................. P-1
Entering Education Benefits............ J-7 4868 Extension.........................M-7 Injured Spouse............................... P-3
Entering Other Compensation in 5329 ......................................... H-2 Innocent Spouse............................. P-3
TaxSlayer................................. D-61 8332.......................................... K-6 Insolvency Worksheet................... D-64
Estimated Tax Payment................ K-18 8379.......................................... P-3 Installment Agreement.................. K-16
Exception to Early 8453.......................................... K-6 Insurance Premiums
Distribution Penalty................... H-2 8863........................................... J-7 Health.........................................F-6
Exclusion of Gain on Sale 8879.......................................... K-6 Long Term Care........................ F-6
of Home.................................. D-28 8880........................................ G-10 Intake and Interview Sheet............. B-3
Exemptions..................................... C-1 8889.......................................... E-3 Interactive Tax Assistant................. P-6
Dependent................................ C-3 1040-ES.................................... K-8 Interest............................................ D-7
Qualifying Child........................ C-4 CSA 1099-R............................ D-37 Mortgage Interest
Qualifying Relative ................... C-6 K-1................................. D-53, N-47 Received............................ D-10
Personal.................................... C-2 RRB-1099-R.................. D-44, N-46 Municipal Bond.......................... D-9
Expenses SSA 1099...................... D-33, N-44 OID............................................ D-8
50% Limit.................................F-11 W-2.................................. D-4, N-25 Student Loan Interest Paid........ E-8
Business...........................D-20, F-9 W-4.......................................... K-17 Tax-exempt................................ D-9
Employee.................................F-12 W-4P....................................... K-17 You Paid.....................................F-7
Entertainment...........................F-10 Foster child..................................... C-1 Interest and/or Dividend............... N-28
Job Hunting................................F-4 Gains and Losses........................... D-3 IRA
Medical.......................................F-6 Gross Income................................. D-1 Contribution............................... E-7
Miscellaneous............................F-8 Head of Household....................... B-10 Distributions............................ D-33
Transportation..........................F-12 Health Insurance Premiums............F-6 Rollover................................... D-39
Travel..........................................F-9 Health Savings Account................. E-3 ITA .................................................. P-6
Extension, Requesting................... M-7 Home, Sale of............................... D-28 Itemized Deductions........................F-5
Frequent Taxpayer Inquiries........... P-3 How to Use The Calculator........... N-10 Interview Tips.............................F-3
Filing Requirements........................ A-1 How to Use This Guide....................... 5 Who Must Itemize......................F-1
Children..................................... A-2 Household Employee Income....... D-53 ITIN..................................................L-2
Dependents............................... A-2 HSA................................................ E-3 Applying for................................L-3
Other Situations........................ A-3 Identity Theft................................... P-2 Creating a Return without
Filing Status Decision Income ITIN.......................................L-3
Head of Household Armed Forces............................ D-2 Job Aid............................................ B-1
Qualifying Person.............. B-10 Business.................................... D-8 Form 1040 Job Aid.................... B-1
Tree........................................... B-8 Earned........................................I-1 Job Hunting Expenses.....................F-4
First-time Homebuyer Credit.......... H-1 Form 1099-R................. D-34, N-40 K-1................................................ D-47
Foreign Address..................B-16, D-54 Form 1099-R Disability.. D-39, N-43 Keeping Up a Home, Cost of........ B-11
Foreign Earned Income................ D-54 Gambling Winnings........... D-1, D-3 Last name, determining................ B-13
Foreign Earned Income Gross......................................... D-1 Legislative Extenders
Exclusion................................. D-54 IRA Distribution....................... D-33 Discharge of Qualified Principal
Foreign Tax Credit.......................... G-2 K-1........................................... N-47 Residence Indebtedness... EXT-1
Form Military....................................... D-2 Publication 4731-A Screening
1040.......................................... B-1 Other Compensation............... N-27 Sheet............................... EXT-2
1099-B..................................... D-23 Other Income................ D-53, N-50
1099-DIV................................. D-11 Pension and Annuity............... D-33
Q-6
Index
Entering Forgiveness of Prisoner Earned Income............... D-45 D.............................................. N-37
Qualified Principal Residence Property Taxes.................................F-7 D-Loss Carryover and Sale
Indebtedness................... EXT-4 Pro Online Home............................ O-1 of Main Home..................... N-38
Tuition and Fees Deduction... EXT-6 Publication E.............................................. D-56
Residential Energy Credits.... EXT-7 4731.....................D-46, D-50, D-51 K-1........................................... D-53
Lifetime Learning Credit.................. J-4 4885.......................................... E-5 R.............................................. G-15
Logging On Qualifying Child.............................. C-3 Sale of Main Home....................... N-39
Pro Online................................. O-1 Child Tax Credit....................... G-12 Scholarships and
Long Term Care Insurance..............F-6 EIC..............................................I-2 Grants.............................. D-45, J-1
Medical Expenses...........................F-6 For EIC........................................I-4 Scope of Service................................ 9
Mileage Of More Than One Person........ C-4 Section 121 Exclusion.................. D-50
Business.................................. D-21 Qualifying Relative.......................... C-6 Self-employed Transportation
Medical.......................................F-6 Quality Review................................ K-7 Expenses.................................F-12
Mileage Diagram...........................F-12 Quality Site Requirements................ 12 Separated Parents,
Military Income............................... D-2 Railroad Retirement...................... D-26 Children of................................. C-8
Miscellaneous Expenses.................F-8 Real Estate Taxes............................F-6 Setting TaxSlayer Pro Online
Monthly Payments, Making........... K-16 Recordkeeping, as a Favorite............................. O-1
Mortgage Insurance Business Travel........................F-13 Signatures.................................... K-23
Premiums...................................F-7 Refund Childs Return.......................... K-23
Mortgage Interest Paid....................F-7 Direct Deposit.......................... K-14 Deceased Taxpayer................. K-23
Municipal Bond Interest.................. D-9 Savings Bond.......................... K-15 Simplified Method......................... D-19
Navigating TaxSlayer Pro Desktop. N-1 Split......................................... K-15 Social Security Benefits................ D-27
Navigating TaxSlayer Pro Online.... O-3 Refund of State Income Tax......... D-11 Split Refund.................................. K-15
Nonrefundable Credits.................... G-1 Reject Codes.................................. Q-5 Standard Deduction.........................F-1
Nonresidence Decision Tree............L-1 Rental Income.............................. D-53 For Dependents.........................F-2
Nontaxable Income....................... D-43 Residency Status Decision For Over 65 or Blind...................F-2
Offer in Compromise.................... K-16 Tree............................................L-1 Standards of
Office of Personnel Residential Energy Credit........... EXT-7 Conduct................Inside front cover
Management........................... D-37 Resident/Non Resident Starting a New Return
OPM Retirement........................... D-37 Definitions..................................L-2 TaxSlayer Pro Online................. B-5
Other Income................................ D-53 Retirement and Pension TaxSlayer Pro Desktop.............. N-4
Other Taxes Payments.................... H-1 income for EIC........................ D-18 State and Local Refund
Out of Scope Topics............................ 8 Retirement and Pension Worksheet............................... D-12
Paper Return................................ K-14 Income.................................... D-22 State Returns, Creating................ K-13
Payment Agreements................... K-16 Retirement Savings Student for EIC.................................I-4
Penalty, Estimated Tax.................... H-3 Credit......................................... G-9 Student Loan Interest..................... E-7
Pension and Annuity Income........ D-18 Rollover of IRA or 401(k).............. D-20 Support Worksheet......................... C-9
Personal Exemptions...................... C-2 ROTH IRA, Contribution........D-22, E-6 Tax Topics....................................... P-8
Personal Information..................... N-13 Routing Numbers.......................... K-14 Tax Trails......................................... P-8
Personal Information Royalty Income............................. D-53 Taxable and
-Dependents............................ N-16 Sale of a Home............................. D-41 Non-taxable Income.................. D-1
Personal Representative.............. K-22 Sale of Stock................................ D-37 Taxes You Paid.................................F-6
PIN Guidelines................................ K-6 Sales Tax.........................................F-5 Tax-exempt Interest........................ D-9
Points paid.......................................F-7 Savings Bond with Refund .......... K-15 Taxpayer Civil
Power of Attorney......................... K-13 Schedule Rights.................. Inside back cover
Practitioner PIN Guidelines.......... K-21 A.................................................F-5 TaxSlayer Entries.......................... D-3
Preparing a Tax Return................... K-7 A Detail.......................................F-7 Temporary absence........................ C-5
Printing from Desktop................... N-11 B.............................................. D-12 Tie-breaker..................................... C-4
Printing the Return C.................................... D-30, D-32 Tips................................................ D-9
TaxSlayer Pro Desktop............ N-11 Schedule C or Transportation Expense.................F-12
TaxSlayer Pro Online................. O-5 C-EZ/1099 MISC................ N-30 Travel Expenses..............................F-9
Prior Year Returns..........................M-5 C-EZ.............................. D-30, D-33 Tuition Fees................................ EXT-6
Q-7
Index
Unmarried Parents,
Children of................................. C-8
Unreported Social Security
and Medicare Tax...................... H-1
Vehicle Registration Tax..................F-5
View Form Option........................... N-9
Volunteer
Agreement ...........Inside front cover
Wages............................................ D-6
Whats New.................................New-1
Wheres My Refund........................ P-8
Who Must File
Children..................................... A-2
Dependents............................... A-2
Most People.............................. A-1
Other Situations........................ A-3
Who Should File............................. A-3
Withholding................................... K-18
On 1099-B............................... D-13
Q-8
Taxpayer Civil Rights
The Department of the Treasury-Internal Revenue Service will not tolerate discrimination based on race, color,
national origin (including limited English proficiency), disability, reprisal, sex (in education programs or
activities) or age in programs or activities receiving federal financial assistance from the Internal Revenue
Service.
Persons with disabilities and/or limited English proficiency should be able to participate in or benefit from
programs and services that IRS supports. Taxpayers with a disability may request a reasonable
accommodation and taxpayers with limited English proficiency may request language assistance to access
service. For additional Information refer to https://www.irs.gov/uac/Your-Civil-Rights-Are-Protected for
reasonable accommodation.
If a taxpayer believes that he or she has been discriminated against, a written complaint should be sent to:
Civil Rights Unit
1111 Constitution Avenue, NW, Room 2413
Washington DC 20224
Email edi.civil.rights.division@irs.gov
Do not send tax returns, payments or other non-civil rights information to this address.
Low Income Tax Clinics

Low Income Taxpayer Clinics (LITCs) represent low income individuals in disputes with the Internal Revenue
Service, including audits, appeals, collection matters, and federal tax litigation. LITCs can also help taxpayers
respond to IRS notices and correct account problems. Some LITCs provide education for low income
taxpayers and taxpayers who speak English as a second language (ESL) about their taxpayer rights and
responsibilities.
LITC services are free or low cost for eligible taxpayers. LITCs are independent from the IRS but receive some
of their funding from the IRS through the LITC grant program. Each clinic determines whether prospective
clients meet income guidelines and other criteria before agreeing to represent them.
Find a clinic near you on the LITC Map or IRS Publication 4134, Low Income Taxpayer Clinic List. This
publication is also available at www.irs.gov/orderforms or at your local IRS office.
Taxpayer Advocate Service

The Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) is an independent organization within the IRS, led by the National
Taxpayer Advocate. Its job is to ensure every taxpayer is treated fairly and that taxpayers know and
understand their rights. TAS offers free help to taxpayers in dealing with the often confusing process of
resolving tax problems they havent been able to resolve on their own. TAS has at least one taxpayer advocate
office located in every state, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. The local advocates number is in the
local directory and at taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov.
The Taxpayer Advocate Services website, taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov, is a resource for all taxpayers. The
website covers a variety of tax-related concepts and problems, breaking each down to describe what the
taxpayer should know, what they should do, and where they can get more help if needed. Taxpayers can also
learn about their taxpayer rights. The site is mobile-responsive, so its easy to use on any device.
If a taxpayer comes into a VITA/TCE site with a tax problem for which they have been unsuccessful in
resolving with the IRS, TAS may be able to help.
For more information, the taxpayer can call toll-free 1-877-777-4778 (1-800-829-4059 for TTY/TDD) or locate
the closest advocate at taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov.
Contact Information for Volunteers
TaxSlayer
TaxSlayer Volunteer Support 1-800-421-6346 (Do not give to the public)
TaxSlayer via E-Mail support@vita.taxslayerpro.com
Tax Year Website

Current and 3 previous years accessible from one
https://vita.taxslayerpro.com
URL

VITA/TCE Hotline (for volunteer use only) 1-800-829-8482 (800-TAX-VITA)
IRS SPEC Territory Office
Enterprise Service Desk (Help Desk)
IRS e-file Help Desk 1-866-255-0654
Identity Theft 1-800-908-4490
VolTax (To Report Unethical Behavior to IRS) wi.voltax@irs.gov
Volunteer Tax Alerts https://www.irs.gov/Individuals/Quality-and-Tax-
Alerts-for-IRS-Volunteer-Programs
State Department of Revenue

State Volunteer Hotline
State e-file Help Desk
State General Information
State Website
Partner Point of Contact
Contact Information for Taxpayers

IRS Tax-Help www.irs.gov
Wheres My Refund Website www.irs.gov/refunds
IRS Forms and Publications www.irs.gov/orderforms
IRS Taxpayer Advocate www.irs.gov/advocate
IRS Tax-Help for Deaf (TDD) 1-800-829-4059
Social Security Administration www.ssa.gov/
Refund Offset Inquiry (Financial Management
1-800-304-3107
System)

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VITA/TCE Volunteer Resource Guide

Take your VITA/TCE training online at www.irs.gov (keyword: Link

Volunteer Standards of Conduct

Your removal from all VITA/TCE Programs;

SPEC Employees Only:

Can Hotline Assistors

48 Foreign tax credit 1099-INT or 1099-DIV See Note 8

Can Hotline Assistors

64 Federal income tax withheld from W-2 and 1099 No

2017 estimated tax payments and amount applied

Important Changes for 2016 iii

TIP The limit on premiums is for each person.

Foreign Earned Income Exclusion

$506 with no children

Discharge of Qualified Principal Residence

Volunteers may assist taxpayers who meet the following requirements:

Part I Home Mortgage Loan

Part II Home Mortgage Loan

Use the job aid on the preceding pages to

Form 982, Reduction of Tax Attributes

If the taxpayer had a portion of the

Tuition and Fees Deduction at a Glance

Residential Energy Credits

Qualified energy efficiency improvements such as adding insulation, energy-efficient

THEN file a return

1. You owe any special taxes, including any of the following.

Chart D Who Should File

Important Reminder: The Intake/Interview

Not all of these If yes, determine if taxa-

Verify eligibility for See Tab E for definition

See Tab J and compare

The taxpayer may If yes, ask taxpayer for

Ask taxpayer for a Check for tax benefits

Form 13614-C Job Aid for Volunteers Page 3

The Start a New Tax Return option

Social Security Number Entry

If the SSN doesnt match, TaxSlayer Pro displays the following:

Pulling Prior Year Data

Were you married on the last YES

NO Did you and your spouse

Do both of the following apply? NO SINGLE

step Do all the following apply? If YES, STOP. You are

step Do all the following apply? If YES, STOP.

step Do all the following apply? If YES, STOP. Your

Amount others paid $

TaxSlayer Navigation: Basic Information>Filing Status

Use the Tab B to determine

Name Controls for Individual Tax Returns

Enter in TaxSlayer IRS Database

TaxSlayer Navigation: Basic Information>Personal Information

Next is an input screen that gathers the taxpayers personal information.

You must input birth date. Include

Verify spouses last name with

Enter spouses SSN. If the taxpayer is filing MFS and does

This section is important for

Check the box if the

Checking the taxpayer is deceased

Check the Military and foreign

Entering the ZIP code will cause the

See Note 1 for residency status.

Always ask for at least one telephone

Dependent/Qualifying Child Information:

TaxSlayer Navigation: Basic Information>Dependents/Qualifying Person